Elena woke slowly, stretching her arms above her head before rolling toward Ryker’s side of the bed—only to find cool sheets and an empty space. Her fingers brushed against a folded piece of paper.
She blinked the sleep from her eyes and read it.
Had to head out to look for a missing patrol.
Hope to be back by breakfast.
5 more days.
– Ryker
Her brows furrowed with worry, but she pushed herself up and dressed quickly. When she opened the bedroom door, Kai and her two new guards were already waiting.
“Good morning, Kai,” she said. “How many went on the search party?”
“Five, including Ryker,” he answered.
“Thank you. Can you mind‑link Ashley and ask her to prep enough for five extra wolves? And once Ryker says they’ve found the patrol, tell him to bring everyone back here to eat. If
