Lucas POV
I stared at the sky as I sheltered under a tree. Tonight was my turn to guard the tribe, along with two others stationed in different areas. The rain was coming down heavily, and I didn't want to get wet. I really hate it when my fur gets soaked and starts to smell. Sitting on the ground, I growled softly, thumping my paws in frustration. I looked around, but the rain was so dense I couldn't see much of anything.
Guarding the tribe all night was a task that easily bored me. I put my face in my crossed paws and stared at the same spot for what felt like hours. Suddenly, a heavenly scent caught my attention. I sat up excitedly and ran toward it, ignoring the discomfort of my fur getting wetter with each step. Despite how much I hated it, I pressed on, driven by the intoxicating fragrance.
As I neared the source of the scent, I realized it was coming from a small cave. I sniffed the air cautiously but didn't detect any male beasts around. Just a female. With that reassurance, I quickly slipped inside.
The sight that met me was unexpected. The female was huddled in a corner of the cave, her eyes closed as if she were trying to block out the world. She had long red hair that fell over half her face, obscuring her features. But what I could see made my heart race.
Sensing my presence, she opened her eyes and looked at me. My heart skipped a beat. Her hazel eyes were gorgeous, misty, and full of emotion. Her face was fair, with a pinkish hue and tear stains marking her cheeks. Her lips, pinkish-red and slightly parted, made her look even more vulnerable. But when I took a step towards her, she recoiled in fear. I tilted my head, puzzled by her reaction. Why was she so afraid of me?
I decided I needed to comfort her. My thoughts raced ahead, imagining taking her with me and making her my mate. The idea brought a sense of purpose and excitement. I shook off the rain from my fur, sending droplets flying, and approached her slowly.
She closed her eyes tightly as I drew near. Confused by her behavior, I gently placed my paw near her legs and tapped softly. I knew my paw pads were soft and hoped it would reassure her.
Her eyes flew open in surprise. "There's actually a friendly wolf..." she murmured, staring at me in amazement. I nodded my head, trying to show her I meant no harm. I'm always friendly to those I care about.
"You actually understand me," she said, her voice tinged with surprise and relief. She reached out and touched my head. I lowered it slightly, savoring the gentle pats. It felt comforting, a connection I hadn't experienced before.
I thought about turning human to speak to her, but before I could make the change, she hugged me softly, her hands still caressing my fur. I tilted my head, trying to understand her affection. Maybe she preferred my beast form. After all, I did have the thickest fur coat in the tribe, and I didn't shed much.
"You're so comfy, Wolfie," she murmured, her voice drowsy. Before long, she fell asleep in my arms. I looked down at her, feeling a protective urge swell within me.
I knew I had to take her to the tribe healer. She needed care, and I wanted to make sure she was safe. Carefully, I gathered her up and started the journey back to the tribe.