She clenched her fists tightly, battling against the surging feelings that urged her to leap out of bed and rush to Gabriel's side, in the middle of the pitch-black night, with no logical reason to do so.
"Just one month. Just one month," she whispered to herself, trying to anchor her mind amidst the storm of emotions. She knew she had to resist the impulses that the imprint seemed to evoke within her.
Liz was aware that the power of the imprint ran deep, and it was driving her to crave the touch and affection of Gabriel in ways she couldn't fully comprehend. The very thought of it was both alluring and unsettling.
"No," she asserted, trying to regain control over her own thoughts and desires. "I will resist. I will fight against these urges."
She knew she had a greater purpose, a mission to fulfill. Liz had to find the Blood of the Moon and bring it to Lucian. It was the key to saving not only him but millions of others in the world.
The fate of countless lives rested on her shoulders, and she couldn't afford to be swayed by the enigma of the Alpha's imprint.
As she visualized her mission, a sense of purpose surged through her veins, pushing back against the overwhelming emotions that had been threatening to consume her.
"I will find the Blood of the Moon," she repeated to herself, a mantra to anchor her resolve. "I will save Lucian and the world."
***
Gabriel opened his eyes after keeping them shut for a while, reciting the summoning words to his new imprint.
To his surprise, he found himself having dozed off in the bathtub. He lifted his head and gazed at the servant girl who was gently bathing his shoulders with a soft sponge.
"How long was I asleep?" he inquired, his voice laced with curiosity.
"You might have dozed off for about thirty minutes, Master," she replied, continuing to rinse his body with fresh water.
Gabriel took in her response, realizing that he had lost track of time during his moment of rest. He observed the servant girl's diligent and careful approach, appreciating her attentiveness to detail.
"Thank you for your assistance," he acknowledged, his voice filled with a mixture of gratitude and acknowledgement.
The servant girl nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She continued to rinse his body, ensuring every trace of soap was washed away.
Gabriel murmured to himself, a frown forming on his forehead. "And she didn't come," he muttered under his breath.
The servant girl looked at him with confusion. "Who are you referring to, Master?" she asked, trying to understand his words.
"My little snack," Gabriel replied with narrowed eyes. "Hm, she resisted my call. That brave little snack."
The servant girl's confusion deepened, unsure of the meaning behind Gabriel's words.
Gabriel's expression shifted, a mix of intrigue and annoyance flickering across his features. He contemplated the resistance he had encountered, a hint of fascination mingled with frustration.
"She's defiant," he mused, his voice tinged with a sense of curiosity. "It's the first time someone has dared to defy me and stand against my summons."
***
Liz stepped out of her apartment building, marveling at the historical architecture that adorned Wolfdale.
The sight before her was nothing short of breathtaking, and she couldn't believe the beauty that surrounded her.
The streets were lined with elegant Victorian-style buildings, each one exuding charm and character. Intricate details adorned the facades, from ornate carvings to intricate moldings, giving each building a unique and captivating presence.
It was as if she had stepped into a different era, where time had preserved the grandeur of the past.
The cobblestone streets added to the enchanting ambiance, their uneven texture telling stories of countless footsteps that had tread upon them over the years.
Ancient lampposts illuminated the pathways, casting a warm glow upon the surroundings, and creating a romantic atmosphere that seemed straight out of a fairy tale.
As Liz gazed up, she was greeted by the beautiful, clear sky. She took in deep breaths of the fresh air, enriched by the lush foliage that lined the streets, providing a cool and invigorating atmosphere.
"Oh, if only Gabriel wasn't in the picture," Liz mused silently, her eyes filled with a hint of longing. She imagined a future where she could return to this idyllic town after successfully completing her mission, free from the entanglements that Gabriel brought into her life.
A surge of frustration washed over her as she recalled Gabriel's arrogant demeanor and the events of the previous night. Liz couldn't help but let out an exasperated sigh, her hand instinctively rubbing her neck in annoyance.
The presence of Gabriel and the imprint they shared complicated her journey.
"Eeeiiii, how wonderful, Professor Marcus!" Liz exclaimed when her eyes caught sight of the turquoise bicycle parked in front of the building.
Liz retrieved the key that Professor Marcus had given her, along with her flat key, and unlocked the bicycle from its wheel.
With a joyful cry, she hopped on the bike. It had been a while since she last rode one. In fact, she couldn't even recall when was the last time she had ridden a bicycle.
As she pedaled away, a sense of exhilaration filled her. The wind brushed against her face, carrying away any lingering worries or frustrations.
Liz navigated the streets of Wolfdale, a smile gracing her face as she soaked in the sights and sounds of the town.
The streets of Wolfdale unveiled their charm as Liz meandered through its picturesque paths. The quaint shops, the vibrant gardens, and the friendly faces of the townsfolk brought a sense of warmth and belonging.
As Liz passed through the picturesque town, she couldn't help but notice the well-preserved heritage buildings that stood tall and proud.
Each one held its own history, whispering tales of the past to anyone who cared to listen.
Wolfdale had clearly taken great care in preserving its architectural heritage, ensuring that the essence of its history lived on through its buildings.
The blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences was evident, as shops and cafes nestled within the historic structures, creating a harmonious fusion of the past and the present.