The mansion’s main hall had transformed into a battlefield aid station within minutes of the first howls. Claire stood frozen near the grand staircase, heart hammering against her ribs as warriors carried the injured inside. Blood streaked the marble floors. The metallic scent hung heavy in the air. She scanned every face desperately until she saw him.
Xander.
Two warriors supported him on either side as he limped through the doors. His shirt was torn and soaked with blood, deep gashes visible across his ribs and left shoulder. His face was pale, jaw clenched against the pain, but his emerald eyes found hers immediately, softening with relief even as he staggered.
“Xander!” Claire pushed through the crowd, ignoring the chaos around her. She reached him just as the warriors lowered him o
