Page 34 of Ocean's Whisper

"Your powers aren't just about destruction, Isolde." He softened his tone. "They're about life. About healing. About harmony with the very essence of this world."

The wind picked up around them, tousling her hair. He brushed a strand from her face, allowing his fingers to linger against her cheek. The contact sent a current of electricity between them—their mate bond strengthening with each touch.

"But the research station?—"

"Is just a building," he finished for her. "No one was hurt. And I'd bet every dollar in my accounts that all your precious research was backed up to those cloud servers you scientists love so much."

A hint of a smile tugged on her lips, and he pressed his advantage.

"Besides," he continued, his thumb tracing the curve of her jaw, "I've already directed my team to rebuild the station. Better equipment, expanded facilities—whatever you need."

"You can't just throw money at everything," she countered, but there was no heat in her words.

He chuckled, a deep rumble that originated from his chest. "Watch me."

He pulled her closer, reveling in how perfectly her curves fit against his hard frame. His wolf howled in approval at the contact. This woman—this magnificent, powerful creature—was meant for him. Had always been meant for him.

"Think of what you'll be able to accomplish now," he murmured against her ear, feeling her shiver in response. "Not just with a new facility, but with your powers."

She pulled back slightly, curiosity brightening her eyes. "What do you mean?"

"The connection you've always felt with the ocean? It wasn't just passion or interest—it was your power calling out to you." His arms tightened further around her waist, anchoring her to him. "Imagine what you could do for marine conservation now. Healing ocean life, redirecting pollution, and guiding endangered species to safety."

He watched her face as the possibilities dawned on her, satisfaction flooding his veins. This was his Luna—intelligent, compassionate, and powerful. He would help her see her full potential, even if he had to drag her kicking and screaming toward it.

"You really think I could do all that?"

"I know you can." He pressed his forehead against hers, their breath mingling in the salt-laden air. "But not if you're hiding in some landlocked state, pretending to be something you're not."

Her hands came up to rest against his bare chest, and he felt her power humming just beneath her skin, responding to his own.

"I'm scared, though," she admitted, vulnerability shining in her eyes.

"You don’t have to be. I’ll help you through it and keep you safe. I promise."

He lowered his head, capturing her lips in a kiss that was equal parts dominance and tenderness. He poured all of himself into it, branding her as his. When he finally pulled away, her cheeks were flushed and her breathing unsteady.

"Stay with me," he commanded, though he knew the decision had to be hers. "Stay and become who you were always meantto be. My Luna. The ocean's daughter. A force of nature in your own right."

The lingering hesitation in her frustrated him, yet he understood her fear. Power like hers—raw, untamed, magnificent—would terrify anyone who didn't understand its purpose.

"You might think your powers are a curse," he stated, his eyes locking onto hers. "But they're not. They're a gift."

Her piercing blue eyes bore into his, reflecting both doubt and yearning. "A gift that destroys."

"A gift that will rebuild better than before." He reached for her hand, savoring the electric spark where their skin connected. His wolf growled approvingly within him. "Walk with me."

He didn't phrase it as a question. Alphas didn't typically ask; they directed. Yet he was careful not to drag her, allowing her to follow his lead willingly. That was the delicate balance he needed to master with his Luna—guiding without forcing.

The private stretch of beach before them was pristine, untouched by the pollution that plagued so many coastlines. He had made certain of that over the centuries, using his influence and power to protect what belonged to the Seafang pack.

"Your powers are essential to us," he explained, his voice deep and unwavering. "A pack without a Luna is vulnerable. We need your strength."

"What if I can't learn to control it?" Her curves brushed against his side as she walked, sending a rush of heat through his body.

"You will." He didn't entertain her doubt. "Because you must."

They rounded a bend in the shoreline, and he immediately sensed distress in the water. His heightened senses detected it before his eyes confirmed—a young seal pup stranded on the rocks, bleeding from a gash on its side.

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