Curves And Claws: The Lycan King's Relentless Claim novel Chapter 33

**Fireflies in Winter Rain — Neil A. Varma 33**

**Chapter 33**

Cassian,

“What’s wrong with her?” I asked, urgency lacing my voice as I transitioned back to my human form. The weight of worry pressed heavily on my chest, and yet before I could make any sudden movements, Asroh insisted that I promise to allow him to shift back after he had treated her.

Reluctantly, I agreed, fully aware that Cyrus’s colossal wolf form would barely fit in the cramped confines of the healer’s home.

Healer Asroh, a man of middle age who had been our trusted healer for many years, scrutinized Roana’s injury with a meticulous gaze. His brow furrowed deeply, and his lips pressed into a thin line of concentration before he finally met my anxious eyes. “The wound should have been stitched, but surprisingly, it’s healing rather quickly. However, the arrow has caused damage to some veins. Thankfully, whoever applied the bandage did a commendable job. Otherwise, we might have faced the grim prospect of amputation.”

My jaw tightened, the muscles clenching as I balled my fists at my sides, a tempest of anger and fear swirling within me.

“Then why on earth is she burning up? Look at her nails; they’re turning blue!” I demanded, my voice slicing through the thick tension in the air, leaving no room for hesitation or delay.

Asroh explained cautiously, “It was a bit late when she received treatment. The nails were the first to exhibit symptoms. But it’s stabilizing now. She’s taken antidotes, and the fever is a side effect of the medicine.” He carefully injected her with something, his fingers trembling slightly under the weight of my intense gaze. “I’m administering painkillers and fever reducers. Her wolf is actively battling the poison; she should be alright by tomorrow.”

A sharp breath escaped me, a rush of relief mingling with my worry. She looked utterly drained—her skin pale and clammy with sweat, her lips trembling faintly with each shallow breath she took.

But then—

“Your Majesty!” Asroh’s voice wavered with uncertainty as he glanced nervously between me and Roana. “Who is she? It’s the first time I’ve seen your Lycan go feral over anyone!” He didn’t hesitate to voice his astonishment.

It was true. I had never witnessed Cyrus display such ferocity for anyone—not even for my first love. Well, my first love. Cyrus had tolerated her presence, even agreeing to mark her if it brought me happiness. But this was the first instance where he openly defied my authority, taking matters into his own paws.

“This is Roana Milestones. My Luna.”

Asroh froze mid-action, pressing cotton gently against her skin. His eyes widened, his mouth agape in shock as he darted glances between me and Roana. “Since when, Your Majesty?”

A cold, half-smile crept onto my lips. “Why does it concern you?”

Suddenly, Cyrus growled low and dangerously, shifting only his head, the rumble reverberating through the room. “Why does it matter to you?”

The healer’s breath caught in his throat, and he immediately dropped to his knees, bowing his head in submission. “My apologies, Your Majesty! I was merely surprised!”

“Keep your surprise to yourself. I want to take her home, Cassian. I don’t trust him,” Cyrus pressed into my mind, his restlessness palpable.

“Calm down, Cyrus!” I commanded firmly, my voice as unyielding as steel. “She needs the IV drip. Also… Healer Asroh, we haven’t made it official yet, but she is my mate—legally married to me. So be mindful of how you address her in the future.”

“Certainly. I would never dare to disrespect our Luna.” He bowed again, this time toward Roana, who remained asleep, her chest rising and falling with shallow, rapid breaths.

“I want to take her home. This room reeks of some foul scent. She should only have my scent,” Cyrus insisted, his urgency pressing against my consciousness, demanding to shift.

I exhaled heavily through gritted teeth, knowing full well that he wouldn’t allow me any peace tonight. “We’re taking her home with us.”

“Understood, Your Majesty! I will accompany you to properly set the IV drip.”

I nodded, lifting Roana carefully into my arms. Her body was searing hot, fever coursing through her fragile frame. My grip instinctively tightened as I held her close. Truthfully, I didn’t want to leave her alone—not merely because I couldn’t sleep without her scent, but because the thought of anyone else’s scent mingling with hers set my blood ablaze. The earlier encounter with Sean left a bitter taste in my mouth.

And I couldn’t grasp why. Why did I feel so disturbed when all I had ever acknowledged was the contract between us? We didn’t love each other. Yes, our mate bond was robust, but both of us had managed to maintain our boundaries without crossing lines.

We soon arrived home, Roana still cradled in my arms. As I stepped inside, my eyes immediately found Carolyn, who was engaged in conversation with Lorenzo. Her face was pale with worry, and the moment our eyes locked, her lips trembled, tears pooling in her gaze as she rushed toward me. But she froze the instant she noticed Roana in my arms.

“What’s going on?” Her voice sharpened with disdain. “Why are you carrying her like that? Where have you been?”

Her questions came fast and sharp, like needles piercing the air. Her eyes narrowed with contempt as they flicked over Roana’s unconscious form, as if she were nothing more than dirt.

“I won’t judge or say you’re wrong, Your Majesty. But—” Lorenzo hesitated, forcing the words out. “Don’t push away those who have stood by you unconditionally for someone temporary.”

My eyes narrowed, a dangerous glint flashing in them. “Are you saying I’m pushing Carolyn away? What am I supposed to do when I’m pressured to have a Luna by my side?”

“We have Veronica. She could have—”

I stepped forward, my shadow looming over him. My voice was deep and merciless. “Are you sure about that? Veronica can’t even come close to Roana. Didn’t you see her wolf? An Alpha Wolf concealed beneath this ordinary woman. She possesses years of experience. Veronica trembles like a frightened pup in front of officials. I’d rather have someone temporary as my Luna than Veronica, who never had a chance to stand beside me.”

Lorenzo lowered his eyes, fists clenched tightly.

“But Carolyn despises Roana. She believes you’ve replaced her sister with this woman.”

“Whose fault is that?” My voice carried the weight of authority that silenced the room. “I asked Carolyn to be my fake Luna too. But she refused. What do you expect me to do? Wait for a woman who vanished from my life five years ago without a trace?”

“But Your Majesty—”

“No buts, Lorenzo.” My gaze pierced right through him. “Make sure you understand the truth. I gave Carolyn a chance to make things right. But she’s pushing me too far. I will not sacrifice the safety of this territory for her selfish interests.”

The chapter closes on a tense and emotionally charged note, highlighting the complex web of loyalty, love, and duty that binds the characters. The fierce protectiveness Cassian feels for Roana is palpable, revealing a depth of feeling that transcends the boundaries of their contractual bond. His struggle to balance his responsibilities as a leader with his personal attachments underscores the heavy burden of his role, while the simmering conflict with Carolyn adds a raw, human element to the story—one where love, jealousy, and betrayal intertwine.

Despite the storm of emotions and the harsh words exchanged, there is an undeniable undercurrent of care and determination that drives Cassian forward. His unwavering commitment to Roana’s well-being, even in the face of opposition and doubt, speaks to the strength of their connection and the sacrifices he is willing to make. The chapter reminds us that love, in all its forms, often demands courage and resilience, especially when caught between the demands of the heart and the harsh realities of leadership.

**What to Expect in Next Chapter?**

The next chapter promises to delve deeper into the tangled emotions and loyalties within the pack, as Cassian grapples with the mounting tensions between his duty as a leader and the fragile bonds of trust among those closest to him. The simmering conflict with Carolyn is far from over, and her bitterness hints at wounds that run deeper than mere jealousy. As Cassian tries to protect Roana, the strain on his relationships threatens to unravel the delicate balance of power and affection that holds their world together.

Expect the emotional stakes to rise as Cassian confronts not only external threats but also the internal battles that challenge his authority and heart. The dynamics between the characters will grow more complex, with loyalty, love, and betrayal intertwining in unexpected ways. The presence of Healer Asroh and Lorenzo’s cautious counsel adds layers of intrigue, suggesting that alliances may shift and secrets could surface. Readers will be left wondering how far Cassian is willing to go to protect his Luna and maintain control over his realm, even as the shadows of past promises and present dangers loom large.