Kael arrived at dawn on the third day.
The bells in the old chapel started ringing long before we saw him. Thorne and I were already dressed and armed when Vesper pounded on our door.
“He’s here. With forty wolves. They’re forming up outside the east gate.”
My stomach twisted, but the bond steadied me. Thorne kissed me hard before we headed down. “Stay close to me. No heroics.”
The town square had turned into a battlefield waiting to happen. Rogues lined the walls. Humans who chose to fight stood with pitchforks and old swords. I spotted Mara handing out healing kits with trembling hands.
Kael stood just beyond the gate, golden hair shining in the weak sunlight, looking every bit the proud Alpha. His eyes found me immediately.
“Lena,” he called, voice carrying over the distance. “Thi
