The hollow ache where the strong bond once lived hit Nora like a punch to the gut.
She walked the empty halls of the tower, arms wrapped around herself. Free from the constant tug, but so empty it hurt to breathe.
Blake caught up with her fast. "Nora, stop walking away. The bond is weak and we feel it too. Let me pull you back in."
"I feel free without the pull," she answered. "But empty. Like I lost a piece of myself."
Drew appeared around the corner. "We are desperate here. The empire is cracking and we need you whole. Fight for us."
"I am trying," Nora said. "But everything feels different now."
They headed straight into the final alliance meeting. Pack leaders packed the long table. Voices already buzzed with worry.
The head alpha spoke loud. "Victor grows bolder every hour. We
