4
+15 BONUS
After Ryan left, I quickly packed our essentials. My hands shook but I forced them steady.
“Get your favorite books, Marcus,” I whispered, shoving clothes into a bag. “We’re leaving soon.”
Five hours until Emma and Alexander would come. I watched Gregory, Ryan’s “strongest guard,” stationed at our door.
I called Emma, pressing close to the damp basement wall. “The security’s tight.”
“Don’t worry, sister,” Emma’s voice held a predator’s confidence. “Alexander has a plan. The Blood Moon Pack is ready.”
Marcus snatched the phone, his small face lighting up. “Aunt Emma! I miss you!”
Emma’s laugh warmed my heart. “Miss you too, pup. Soon no one will ever hurt you or your mom again. We have a room ready
for you both.”
The basement door exploded inward before I could respond.
–
Katherine flew down the stairs, her shift so fast it blurred. Her massive silver wolf – still powerful despite her age – slammed me
against the wall.
Bones cracked. Blood filled my mouth.
“You witch!” she snarled, shifting back to human form. “Making my son raise a bastard for eight years! My precious Jamie living
in exile because of your murderous whelp!”
She lunged again, claws extended. “What dark magic did you use on my son? What spell trapped him with gutter trash like you?”
Gregory stepped between us, his massive frame blocking her attack. “Beta Ryan ordered me to protect them, Ma’am. Step back.”
“Protect them?” she spat, silver hair wild around her face. “My foolish, soft–hearted son! Still trying to save his whore and her
killer pup!”
