Declan and three elite members of the Special Forces stood in a rigid line before Lysander outside the towering walls of Silverpine.
“You have until dawn to bring her back,” Lysander said, his voice low and commanding. He handed Declan a photograph of Elise.
“Yes, Alpha.” Declan took the picture and tucked it securely into his tactical vest.
“I’d appreciate it if this stayed quiet,” Lysander added. “No unnecessary noise.”
“We’ll keep that in mind.”
The soldiers offered a brief, respectful bow before disappearing into the waiting SUV. As they sped toward Howl Hollow, the cabin light flickered on just long enough for Declan to pass out black face masks.
“Here is the target,” Declan said, holding up the photo. It passed from hand to hand, each soldier memorizing the girl's features befo
