Chapter 4

The moon hung like a silent witness above the forest as I followed Alpha Hayes along a narrow path. My heart hammered against my ribs, each step taking me further from the Silverback pack house and deeper into unknown territory. We hadn't spoken since he'd intercepted me behind the kitchen, his voice low and urgent: "Meet me at the eastern boundary. Midnight."

Now, surrounded by ancient pines that seemed to watch our passage, I struggled to keep pace with his confident stride.

"We're almost there," he said, glancing back at me. His storm-gray eyes reflected the moonlight, making them appear…