---Scarlett POV---
I was in so much trouble. How was I supposed to protect myself without shifting or revealing my powers? I looked at Asten with every ounce of disgust I could summon, my expression twisted with loathing. I stood frozen, trying to contemplate my situation and figure out the best way to escape. But my mind betrayed me—blank, panicked, empty.
I tried again to mind-link anyone, but it was like hitting a wall—thick, unyielding, blocking me completely from reaching anyone, not even my father.
Raising my fists, I dropped into a defensive stance as the three repugnant wolves advanced, their snarls echoing around me. That’s when I heard it—a growl so powerful, so laden with authority and threat, it made my blood run cold. I had never heard a growl like that before… and yet some
