Modric’s POV
We reached the ruined shrine before sunset.
The western forest had grown thick around it, swallowing what had once been a ceremonial road. Roots pushed through broken stone. Moss covered old pillars. Half the roof had collapsed decades ago, leaving the central altar exposed beneath a darkening sky.
At first glance, the place looked dead.
My wolf knew better.
The moment I crossed the outer boundary, pain exploded through the mate bond.
I stumbled.
Mary Ann gasped beside me.
Her hand flew to her chest.
“Modric.”
“I feel it.”
Kylian drew his sword immediately.
“What?”
“The bond.”
Another wave tore through me.
Not like silver.
Not like poison.
This pain came from inside.
It felt as though something invisible had wrapped around the connection between Mary Ann and
