The sincerity of his question unsettled her. She had never considered that their opposing origins could be set aside, even temporarily. She lowered her gaze, touched by the simplicity of his words.
"And if our packs found out?" she murmured, almost to herself.
Aiden shrugged. "Then they’d find out. But here, it’s just you and me, Clara. No pack, no rules. Just us."
Clara looked up, feeling a strange thrill run through her. She had never felt this kind of freedom with anyone. It was as if, in his presence, she could be herself, without fear of judgment.
They continued walking in silence, each savoring the presence of the other. Clara observed his features under the moonlight, shadows from the trees accentuating his rugged look. She noticed a glimmer of softness in his eyes, contrasting with his imposing exterior.
Eventually, she stopped and looked at him, voicing the question that had been bothering her from the start. "Why didn’t you avoid me, Aiden? If you wanted to stay alone?"