Chapter 2

Chapter 2

I was taken aback by his words, finding it hard to believe what I had just heard. Was he seriously asking that question? Perhaps this is all a mistake, right? Given his character, I really want him to stay away from me. I'm sure there are plenty of other people here who possess better intentions than he does. With an expression of disgust, I asked him, "What are you implying?"

He smirked, standing up straight and positioning himself in front of me. His muscles flexed, making it imperative for me to focus on his face so as not to be distracted. "I was just joking," he casually shrugged, winking at me. My lips parted in surprise. So, he was merely being playful? I noticed him observing my face and shaking his head as if finding something amusing about my reaction. What's wrong with him?

"Tell me, did you run away from home?" he accused. His statement left my mind slightly confused. How did he even know that I ran away? Is it so obvious? Anxiety started to set in. What if he keeps prying? What if I can't provide a satisfactory answer? He mustn't find out that I ran away, especially considering that I am a werewolf royal!

"I-I didn't! I was with... my mother! But we got separated, and I ended up getting lost here!" I tried to reason. He raised an eyebrow, seemingly processing my explanation before accepting it. This man is vexing. How does he possess knowledge of my recent escape? Is he some kind of witch or sorcerer?

"Alright. But remember, you can only stay at my house for one night. I cannot accommodate you any longer," he reminded me. I quickly nodded in agreement, as I had no intentions of staying and living with a man like him! "I promise!" I even raised my right hand to emphasize my commitment.

He stared at my hand momentarily before turning away. "Follow me," he commanded. I nodded and obediently trailed behind him. I couldn't help but fixate on his back. With every step he took, the muscles in his back moved subtly. His skin appeared smooth and fair, indicating that he wasn't accustomed to prolonged exposure to sunlight. I couldn't help but wonder about his work. Wait... I don't even know his name!

"So... what's your name?" I asked, attempting to break the silence between us. The surroundings were growing darker, and the sound of crickets was becoming slightly eerie. "Troy," he replied. I was taken aback. I felt like I knew someone by the name of Troy, but I couldn't recall exactly who, so I let it slide. "I'm... Eli," I offered, choosing not to disclose my full name for safety reasons. "So... Troy, what do you do for a living?" I inquired.

“I’m a construction worker. Sometimes, I work as a huntsman," he replied curtly. Ah, so that explains the trap net. He's a huntsman too. But... a construction worker? Why am I finding it hard to believe? Not to undermine the profession of construction workers, surely it's an honorable job, but based on his appearance, it's difficult to imagine him solely as a construction worker. "And what about you? What do you do for a living?" he countered, catching me off guard. Oh no, Elisaria, you need to think quickly!

"Um... well... I'm still searching for a job..." I stammered, struggling to find the right words! "Really? I thought you were just a student," he remarked. His words made me pause and consider. I almost forgot that people still study at this stage in life!

"I... I stopped. My parents couldn't afford it anymore," I explained, making up an excuse. He didn't say anything further. I refrained from speaking as well, afraid that he might redirect his questions to me again. I feared running out of answers. If that happened, I would have to stay away from him immediately!

"Here's my house," he announced. I gazed at the small house in front of us. The darkness had completely engulfed our surroundings as the night grew deeper. It's hard to believe that someone like him lives in this abode. Why? Well, because his house is... incredibly small! It appears fragile as if a strong gust of wind could easily demolish it. I can't help but think that my dog's house in the palace is even more luxurious compared to this.

"Is this... really your house?" I couldn't believe the words that escaped my mouth. His chuckle filled the air. "Yes, it is. Is there a problem? Don't you like it?" he asked, his gaze fixed on me. I hastily shook my head, fearing that my question had offended him. I didn't want to impose myself on him in his own home.

"No! Is it wrong to ask? I was just... admiring your house!" I chuckled awkwardly. Ah, I messed up. He raised an eyebrow and opened the door to his house. My disappointment grew as I stepped inside. The first thing that struck me was how cluttered and cramped it was. His belongings were scattered and almost indiscernible. Due to the limited space, the kitchen and living room seemed to blend together. There was only one door, which I assumed led to his room. But where would I sleep?

"Make yourself at home. I'll just take a quick shower," he said as he closed the door behind him. His words stung. How could I feel at home when there was hardly any space to sit because of the mess in his house? I stood there speechless as he disappeared into the room I had noticed earlier. Letting out a heavy sigh, I took a look around. It was still better than sleeping outside. Despite the disorder and chaos in Troy's house, and despite my initial doubts fueled by his mischievous grin and peculiar laughter, it seemed like his heart was open enough to welcome me into his home.

I approached the couch, but my expression turned into a grimace as I saw the multitude of broken items scattered on it. I carefully set them aside in order to make space to sit. However, before I could even settle down, Troy emerged from his room. This time, he was dressed in a clean white shirt and shorts, but his imposing physique still caught my attention. Goodness, if he were a werewolf, he could easily be an Alpha King, or at the very least, an Alpha!

"So... where will I be sleeping?" I asked, attempting to maintain a smile despite everything. He arched an eyebrow and pointed towards the cluttered couch behind me. I was taken aback. "Huh?" I uttered, clearly confused. He smirked and raised his brow, gesturing toward the chaotic mess.

"You'll be sleeping on the couch. Good night!" he exclaimed with a wave, while I stood there, jaw dropped in disbelief. I couldn't believe he was expecting me to sleep on this disheveled couch! How heartless of him! Is this truly how he treats his guests? Damn him! "How on earth am I supposed to sleep here—" I began to protest, but he swiftly interrupted me, shutting his door. My jaw dropped in frustration. This is unbelievable! Fuck!