Chapter 159. Torture

Magnus

The moon shone low in the sky, casting its silvery glow over the forest as I stood by the edge of the clearing. Astrid's scent lingered faintly in the air, mingling with the pine and earth. I knew she was near; she was my mate; she belonged to me. I knew the tension between our families had only grown, and this wasn't the time for reckless displays of our connection.

As I leaned against a tree, I saw her emerging from the shadows, her eyes full of apology. She was strikingly beautiful. As she came near, her hips swayed so seductively that I couldn't take my eyes off her.

She stopped in front of me and held my gaze.

"Magnus," she began, her voice barely above a whisper. " since I have explained why I've been trying to hide my scent and your mark." What do we do about it?

I shook my head as I thought about it, my eyes fixed on her as she stepped closer to me, leaning on me.

She took a deep breath, her gaze shifting to the ground for a mo