Dark Moon Rising

Chapter 12: Open The Windows

Damian's Point of View

I was unsure about Adrian initially, feeling both envious and somewhat intimidated by his charisma, confidence, and charm. His striking looks had captivated all the female wolves in the Dark Moon pack. Learning that he was Rogue's best friend and like a brother to her, I felt relieved as I knew I couldn't compete with him for her affection.

When Adrian approached me, questioning why he attracted so much attention from the women, I nervously chuckled, unsure if it was a trick question. Realizing his sincerity, I replied hastily that his single status and good looks were likely the reasons. Feeling inadequate to offer advice, I reached out to Felix for help.

"Felix, Adrian needs advice," I said quietly.

"Really? That's great! Are you discussing defense strategies?" Felix replied.

"No, he's seeking guidance about his love life. He's troubled, and I don't know what to say. Please help!" I implored.

Felix concealed a smile, but his eyes sparkled with amusement. He nodded, signaling me to talk to my mate. Gratefully, I moved closer to Rogue, finding solace in her presence. She was mine – a remarkable, courageous, and intelligent woman who was my soulmate. I wrapped my arms around Rogue, and she leaned back onto me.

Rogue had finally confided in me about her past. It broke my heart that anyone could treat this exquisite woman with disdain. Beta Ansel and all the other misogynistic chauvinists in the Ironclaw Pack were fools who needed to be taught a lesson. My beloved Rogue, known as Evie then, managed to get out. But what about the women who were stuck there, condemned to live a life where their appearance, s****l purity, sweetness, and submissiveness were regulated at these men's whims? To be rejected and ridiculed by your own family because you liked aggressive s*x was awful, especially when such intimate moments were meant to be private and not made public knowledge.

I silently thanked the Moon Goddess again for the blessing of my mate as I lovingly stroked Rogue's chestnut brown hair, cascading in tousled waves around her shoulders. Rogue had worn the same outfit she'd arrived in. I hooked my thumbs into the pockets of her ripped jeans and pulled Rogue closer to me so that she could feel how hard I was. Admiring my mate in the tank top that hinted at the curve of her figure beneath and the tattoos that peeked out from the sleeves of her shirt, I couldn't help but marvel at how effortlessly beautiful she was. I ran my fingers gently along the inked patterns on her skin, tracing the stories they told, feeling the warmth of our shared connection.

"You're everything I've ever wanted," I whispered, my voice thick with emotion.

Rogue's lips curled into a soft smile, her hand reaching to cup my cheek. She didn't say anything in response. But Rogue didn't need to. I knew that she loved me in her way. When Rogue was ready, I would mark her so that the world would know she was mine and that I was hers. Until then, I would be patient and wait for my fated mate to accept me.

****

I was disappointed that Rogue, Adrian, and Crypta had moved into their place so quickly. I understood they needed space to set up their equipment and start working on the advanced security system to reinforce the magical shield. Their skills would be invaluable in protecting the Dark Moon pack, using their hacking abilities to predict and prevent potential threats. I had loved having her near, sleeping in her bed or mine, showering together, and being intimate whenever the opportunity presented itself.

What we shared shifted into something much more when Rogue opened up to me and shared her past. As time went on, our relationship began to evolve. The intimacy we shared extended beyond the physical realm and ventured into the emotional and intellectual territories, creating an unbreakable bond.

I wanted to give her something to symbolize how much she meant to me, but I wasn't sure what. I approached Luna Jo one afternoon, and she thoroughly enjoyed shopping online to find the perfect gift. We found a small shop that would customarily create a bracelet engraved with a binary code that translated to "I love you" with a moon and wolf symbol representing our werewolf nature. Luna Jo was quite familiar with different gemstones and their meanings. She helped me find labradorite earrings set in a design with subtle circuitry patterns, both beautiful and symbolic. What made this gemstone even more special was that it was a stone of protection used to guard against negative energy and promote healing.

I had paid the extra cost for the expedited shipping option, so both items arrived in a matter of days. I kept the gifts in my office, waiting for the perfect moment to gift them to Rogue. It just never seemed like the right time.

My phone flashed with a notification of a message. I picked it up, surprised to see that it was from Adrian.

From Adrian: Rogue needs to see you. It is urgent. Do you have time available for her now? Please advise.



My wolf chuckled in my mind. What was that about? The message made it sound like something was wrong.

To Adrian: Is everything okay? Did something happen? Are you safe?

Ignatius started to howl with laughter. What the f**k was his problem?

From Adrian: We are safe. Rogue needs to see you. Please. We were playing on the X-Box, and her thoughts drifted to you. The house reeks of her arousal.

Oh. That's why my wolf was laughing. He knew that Rogue was horny. Why was I so oblivious to these things?

Do you really want me to answer that question? chuckled my wolf.

No. No, I do not, I huffed.

To Adrian: My schedule is clear, and I will immediately tend to her needs once she arrives.

I paused before texting what I wanted to, but then went ahead and did it anyway. I appreciated Adrian reaching out to me like this, as awkward as it was.

To Adrian: Thanks for the message, my friend. I would open the windows as much as possible. Fresh air can help dissipate strong smells quickly. Enjoy your evening, and don't wait up!