Kylian’s black wolf burst through the underbrush like a storm of fury and fear.
The hidden outpost was small and well-concealed — an old ranger cabin deep in the northern woods. Chase’s remaining guards tried to stop him, but they fell quickly under his relentless attack. He shifted back to human form only when he reached the door, kicking it open with a powerful blow.
“Rachel!”
She was inside, sitting on the edge of a simple bed, still shaken from the knockout but otherwise unharmed. Her eyes were wide with fear and exhaustion. The moment she saw him, fresh tears spilled down her cheeks.
“Kylian…” she whispered, her voice breaking.
He crossed the room in two strides and pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly against his chest. His hands trembled as they cradled her head and ba
