Adira’s POV
The stronghold of the Crimson Pack has shifted. The red and gold banners had vanished. Rather, the walls were adorned with silver and black flags, their uncanny symbols bending with the breeze. I no longer called this place home.
At the centre of the courtyard, Seraphina stood with her crimson cloak flapping behind her. However, she was not occupying the throne of the Alpha. It was someone else.
My throat tightened with each breath. Not him. Anybody but him.
His black eyes met me as the stranger leaned closer. "Adira, welcome back."
The air escaped my lungs. Alden.
Alden, a friend from my youth. The boy who used to train next to me. The fighter who had vowed to keep me safe. The new Alpha was him.
At his side, Caspian stood with an unreadable expression.
I said, "I thou
