Chapter 41

Aubrey's POV The moonlight cast stark shadows across Knox's imposing figure as he stood at the water's edge, his expression a complex mix of concern and frustration. Water dripped from my hair, making me acutely aware of my vulnerable position. "What the hell are you doing out here this late?" His voice carried the full weight of his Alpha authority, though something else lurked beneath the surface—an emotion I couldn't quite name. I struggled to form a response, my mind scrambling for an explanation that wouldn't reveal my true purpose. The cool night air raised goosebumps on my skin, and I fought the urge to wrap my arms around myself. *You want him,* my wolf purred, clearly pleased by the direction of my thoughts. *Stop fighting it.* Knox closed the distance between us in three long strides, his presence overwhelming my senses. His hand cupped my face with surprising gentleness, contradicting the intensity in his eyes. When his lips met mine, it was like a dam breaking—all the tensi