The waiting area felt colder than the battlefield. Quieter. But far more unbearable. Talon sat forward on the edge of the chair, elbows resting on his knees, hands clasped tightly together—so tight his knuckles had turned white. His head was slightly bowed, but his eyes… his eyes never left the hallway where Diana had disappeared. As if staring long enough would bring her back. As if refusing to blink would somehow keep her alive. No one disturbed him. Not at first. Willow stood a few steps away, watching her brother carefully. She had never seen him like this. Not even during war. Not even when their pack had been at risk. This— This was different. This was fear. Raw. Unfiltered. Terrifying. She finally stepped closer, her voice soft but steady.
“Talon…” No response. Not even a glance. S
