Aria's POV
I glanced toward the sky. The sunlight was already beginning to fade, casting long shadows across the forest. My stomach tightened. I needed to get back. Damon couldn't know I'd been out.
I picked up my bag and turned to Noah. "We need to leave."
Noah studied my face before nodding. "You're worried about getting back before Damon notices you're gone?"
I looked toward the path leading out of the forest. "Yes. I need to be back before dark."
He gave a quiet nod. "Then let's move."
By the time I reached the estate, the sun was already sinking behind the trees. I quickened my pace, my boots barely slowing as I crossed the grounds.
The moment I passed through the perimeter, the familiar pull of the pack's territory settled over my skin. Wolves moved through the grounds, guards
