Ruby’s POV
I stay in the shade of my tree a heartbeat longer, watching Tyler correct a warrior’s stance. My wolf’s already on her feet, ears forward.
Then another voice carries across the yard, from one of Cindy’s guards talking to a runner.
“From Ironwood lands,” he says. “Richard’s sigil. The Alpha will want to know.”
My father’s name hits like a punch. The scent reaches me a moment later on the wind, and my wolf jolts.
I don’t think. I move.
By the time I cross the yard, my spine is straight and my palms are dry but my wolf is pacing hard under my ribs.
Tyler notices me heading for the path to the main hall. “Ruby?” he calls, falling into step behind me. “What is it?”
“Guests from my father’s territory,” I say.
His gaze sharpens, scanning my face like he is checking for wounds
