Chapter 4

The hidden grove was a secret, one I'd stumbled upon during my earliest days in Shadowmere. The trees grew close here, their branches tangled overhead in a canopy of green. It was a place of peace, a sanctuary from the chaos that had become my life.

"Victoria."

I spun around, my heart leaping as a tall, imposing figure emerged from the shadows. His eyes, sharp and knowing, locked onto mine.

"Father," I whispered, my voice barely audible over the sudden rush of emotion.

Alpha Hayes stepped closer, his presence both comforting and commanding. "My daughter," he murmured, his voice low…