Curves And Claws: The Lycan King's Relentless Claim novel Chapter 113

**Fireflies in Winter Rain — Neil A. Varma**
**Chapter 113**

I felt an exhaustion unlike anything I had ever known. Not even the heart-wrenching betrayal of Alexander, who had shattered my world, had left me feeling this depleted. Back then, I still had the ability to move, to breathe, to exist in a semblance of normalcy. But today, after everything that had transpired, my limbs felt as if they were weighed down by heavy chains, dragging me into an abyss of fatigue. I pushed myself through the hours at Sarah’s bakery, clinging to the warmth that radiated from the locals. Their gentle smiles and unassuming acts of kindness were like rays of sunshine piercing through the clouds of my despair, even if they were unaware of my silent struggles.

Now, as I sat at a small outdoor table with a half-eaten burrito clutched in my hand, the biting cold air rushed against my skin, mocking me with its chill. It burned, but not nearly enough to numb the ache that lodged itself firmly in the center of my chest. Sleep had eluded me for days, and my body had grown so accustomed to the comforting presence of Cassian beside me. His warmth, the rhythm of his steady breathing, his very essence had anchored me, even when I was too proud to admit how deeply I relied on it.

But he hadn’t come. Not once. Not even a hint of his presence.

Suddenly, a voice sliced through the night, sharp yet quiet.

“Is that bakery open?”

Startled, I looked up to see a man standing far too close for comfort, leaning down slightly as if scrutinizing me. Instinctively, I rose from my seat, pointing toward the door.

“It will be closing soon. What do you wish to buy?” I asked, stepping inside the bakery. There was something unsettling about him, a prickling sensation creeping up the back of my neck.

His aura was palpable, too strong and commanding. An Alpha? His eyes glowed a fierce gold, and his tailored dark attire clung to him perfectly, exuding an air of power that was impossible to ignore.

What would bring someone like him here at this hour?

He was undeniably striking—his sharp jawline, the slightly long black hair that brushed against his neck, and his height, towering at least six foot one or two. Even standing still, he dominated the space around him, filling the bakery with an undeniable presence.

“Latte and croissant,” he ordered.

“Croissant?” I glanced at the empty tray, confusion knitting my brow. We had sold out in the morning. Who craved croissants at this late hour? “I’m sorry, but it’s sold—”

“Make one.” He interrupted me, his voice rising with an undeniable authority. “Now.”

“Ha?” My face twisted in disbelief. “I’m not the baker. I can’t just—”

“I don’t care. I need one now.” His demand hung in the air, heavy and unyielding.

The nerve of him. My blood simmered beneath the surface. Who did he think he was, making such outrageous demands?

“Sir,” I said, forcing a strained smile, my eyebrows twitching in irritation. “You seem like a gentleman. Surely, you can refrain from making unreasonable requests?”

He stared at me, his expression utterly unreadable. “If you can’t make one, then go on a date with me. Just the two of us.”

My jaw dropped in shock. I froze, momentarily speechless. “What?” Had he lost his mind? This was absurd!

“Enough, Mr. Jeffrey. Stop trying to mess with my employee.” Sarah’s voice broke through the tension as she entered, arms laden with fresh strawberries.

“Boss,” I breathed out, relief flooding my system.

“Your Highness,” she replied, taking a deep breath, her cheeks flushing a soft pink. She turned her gaze to me. “Stop calling me Boss.” Then, she pointed at the man. “This is Mr. Jeffrey. He’s just moved here temporarily.”

So, he wasn’t from Cassian’s territory. His scent was unfamiliar, his aura heavier and older, like a storm brewing on the horizon.

“I see,” I muttered, my voice barely above a whisper. “Anyway, I need to go. Can I leave?”

“Of course, you’re more than welcome to,” she said, handing me a small package. “Your favorite pie.”

“You don’t need to keep giving me this every time,” I sighed, a hint of exasperation lacing my tone.

“How can I not?” Sarah pouted playfully. “You’ve been working so hard. I can’t let our Queen overwork herself.” She enveloped me in a warm hug. “See you tomorrow, Your Highness.”

I nodded, stepping out into the night. Sarah, Keane, and Sean had become the friends I desperately needed right now. Even though I hadn’t confided in them about my turmoil, their kindness lifted a weight from my shoulders.

As I walked, Candy stood waiting patiently, flicking her tail as if scolding me for being late. I hadn’t ridden her today; instead, I held her lead rope, wandering through the quiet streets.

I didn’t want to go home. Not when the air there felt so suffocating. My feet, guided by instinct and sheer exhaustion, led me toward the woods. The forest was the only sanctuary where my mind could loosen its relentless grip.

When I finally sank down onto the soft grass, the pie still warm in my hand, a voice echoed from a distance, disrupting my moment of solitude. I narrowed my eyes, annoyance flickering across my calm facade. I craved solitude today.

“Your Highness! What are you doing here at this hour?”

I looked up to see Keane sprinting toward me, concern etched across his features, his hair slightly disheveled from patrol.

“Keane?” I whispered, my heart unexpectedly lifting at the sight of him.

His chest rose and fell rapidly as he came to a halt in front of me. “Gosh… I was worried. Where have you been all day?”

Hearing his voice eased something within me, yet I was reluctant to explain myself. Not today. Not when even I struggled to understand why I was avoiding home. I knew I had to confront these troubling feelings, especially as I realized I was falling for Cassian. I just didn’t expect it to be Carolyn who would complicate things, not Elle.

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