{A few hours earlier…}
[Derek’s POV]
We reached the South barely in time. I transformed on the way, letting Kai take over. My eyes zoned in on the wolf that had cornered my mate. I restrained myself from letting out a roar. I had to take that rogue by surprise.
Trotting lightly on feet, I approached. Tim and the others had encircled the outskirts and would come in the moment they sensed that I needed help.
I saw Nadia’s pale face, the glazed eyes, and her trembling lips. Her gaze was filled with horror and submission— she was preparing herself to give up her life. Her lips were cracked and pale, devoid of their healthy color.
I felt a painful tug in my chest. ‘I shouldn’t have left her like that. I should have stayed,’ I thought.
‘The Mimic would get her another day; you cannot a
