If We Don't Leave This Town

He felt a magnetic pull drawing him into the willows, along with her scent trail. He'd been waiting, patiently, for the elusive figure to grace his senses again, yearning for her to pull him closer, to coax the beast within him out into the open where she could weave her enchantments.

There was something he needed to tell her. His kin stirred, calling for his aid, a new empire was on the horizon. It was important that he divulged the truth to her. So he moved with that silent grace, impossible and yet there it was. His bulky form was charged with anticipation, driving him nearly to the brink of madness as he pursued her. With each passing moment he welcomed the challenge of finding her, relishing in the hunt as it brought him closer to the woman who held his soul in her hands. He had managed, for a time, without her presence, but like an addict deprived of their vice, restlessness ate at him. His thoughts were all consuming, driven by the singular desire to be at her side once more.

Her scent, bewitching and intoxicating, guided him deeper into the depths of the willows, away from prying eyes. This was unusual. She seldom strayed so far from her usual haunts. He had spent enough time observing her to detect the subtle shifts in her behavior… Redoubling his efforts, he pressed on, the fur along his spine bristling with anticipation as he imagined countless scenarios. Was there trouble? And then, as if fate itself had arranged for their meeting, Caedes caught sight of Mariah through the tangled foliage ahead. Flawed yet perfect in her own right. A surge of exhilaration surged through him, a wicked smile gracing his lips. Ah, that haunting beauty.

"Mariah," The brute called out huskily, that deep rumble filled with longing. Caedes drew nearer, his massive form cleaved through the foliage like a blade, his steps purposeful yet rife with a sense of urgency. "Don't you know, there are monsters lurking in these woods?" His gaze locked onto hers, conveying mischief and anticipation.