Kora’s POV
The pass behind us felt cursed, the stone walls holding Aaron’s voice like a wound that wouldn’t heal. No matter how far we walked, the echo of his words clung to me: Come find me when you’re ready to learn the truth.
Truth.
The word tasted like ash.
The pack moved faster now, Edward’s command silent but understood: distance. Put as much distance between us and Aaron as possible. Yet no matter how fast we climbed, I couldn’t shake the feeling that he wasn’t chasing from behind—he was already ahead, waiting.
By dawn, the cliffs opened into a wider stretch of land, a barren plateau littered with boulders. The warriors spread out cautiously, checking the area, but Edward didn’t let me leave his side. His grip was firm at my waist, guiding me, guarding me.
But even his presenc
