The Apocalyptic Queen's Werewolf Journey (Thora and Darius) novel Chapter 28

**Shadows Hearts by Joseph King**
**Chapter 28: Don’t Space Out When You’re Driving**

**Thora’s POV:**

As I stepped off the campus grounds, I felt a peculiar urge to deviate from the usual route. Instead of taking the main road, I opted for a secluded path, one that meandered through a canopy of trees. The dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves created a serene atmosphere, a welcome change from the bustling corridors of the university.

Luke was ahead of me, his figure slightly hunched as if he were lost in thought, oblivious to the world around him. This was his domain—a quiet sanctuary where tech enthusiasts like him could thrive without the distractions of social interactions. I trailed behind him, my footsteps soft against the gravel, observing him with a mix of admiration and determination.

After a few moments, he finally sensed my presence and turned, his expression shifting to one of caution. “What do you want?” His tone was clipped, a protective barrier rising around him.

I met his wary gaze, feeling a rush of confidence as I offered a small, inviting smile. “How about a long-term partnership?” The words slipped from my lips, charged with a sense of purpose.

In my mind, I envisioned the intricate web of information I needed to weave in order to secure my place in this world. Luke’s hacking prowess was the key to unlocking doors I couldn’t even see yet. He was the first ally I wanted by my side, a crucial piece in my grand design.

His brow furrowed, a clear sign of his skepticism, but he remained silent. I took a step closer, closing the gap between us, sensing the tension in the air.

“Want to make a bet?” I proposed, my voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in my stomach.

Still, he didn’t respond, his eyes narrowing as he studied me.

“I’ll code an encryption system,” I continued, my mind racing with possibilities. “If you can’t break it, you’ll agree to team up with me long-term. But if you manage to crack it, I won’t pressure you into anything.”

I could feel the weight of my proposition hanging in the air. Luke’s exceptional skills could aid me in ways I could only dream of, but I knew that earning his respect was paramount. I needed him to choose to work with me, not out of obligation but out of a shared vision.

After a moment of silence that felt like an eternity, he turned to walk away.

I raised an eyebrow, a playful challenge lacing my voice. “What’s wrong? Afraid you’ll lose?”

A cold laugh escaped him, sharp and incredulous. “Ha.” He pivoted back to face me, a glimmer of intrigue flickering in his eyes. “Deal.”

His response was crisp, yet his expression betrayed a hint of disbelief, as if he doubted that someone like me could create a system he wouldn’t be able to dismantle. With that, he walked off, leaving me to revel in the thrill of our wager.

I exited the campus shortly after, the evening air cooling around me. The parking lot was almost deserted, the fading light casting long shadows across the pavement.

Suddenly, a familiar voice broke through my thoughts. “Hey, need a ride?”

Felix pulled up in his sleek convertible, the engine purring softly. He must have been waiting for me for quite some time, his posture tense as he leaned against the car.

“Give me your phone.”

I was taken aback but complied, unlocking my phone and handing it over without hesitation.

He fiddled with it for a moment, his brow furrowing in concentration, before returning it to me. “That’s a werewolf battlefield simulation game. I installed it for you. Play with me sometime.” His tone was casual, but I could sense the underlying warmth in his words as he exited the car.

I stared at the new app icon on my screen, a smile breaking across my face despite myself.

This kid…

He was so hopelessly awkward when it came to expressing his feelings. If he wanted to be close to me, why couldn’t he just say it outright?

With a soft chuckle, I tucked my phone away and made my way inside.

Dinner was just beginning as I entered the villa. Laurel and Hazel were engaged in lively conversation at the table, their laughter echoing through the spacious room. But the moment Felix and I stepped into the dining area, their expressions shifted, the warmth fading into something more guarded.

…