Kira tilted her chin up as Leo towered over her, the massive beast's presence both awe-inspiring and intimidating. She had never been this close to a fully shifted Lycan before.
His black fur gleamed under the streetlight, and the sheer power rolling off him made the air feel thicker. Yet she wasn't afraid. Deep down, she knew Derek's beast would never hurt her.
Leo lowered his enormous head until his snout brushed her palm, nuzzling gently. The touch was surprisingly soft. Kira let out a startled laugh and slid her fingers into the thick scruff around his neck.
A deep, rumbling purr vibrated through the beast's chest, so strong she felt it in her own ribs. She giggled again, delighted. The creature pressed closer until its snout was almost resting on her shoulder.
"He's so adorable," she murmured, half to herself, scratching behind his ear. "Completely unlike the man. He is so grumpy."
