The escape from the shattered rink was a blur of roaring bikes, flashing claws, and the cold sting of wind against wet skin. I clutched Leo tight against my chest as Ryker's motorcycle tore down the back roads, my red dress plastered to my body like a second skin, the open surgeon's coat flapping wildly. Leo's small arms wrapped around my neck, his breathing finally steady after the suppressants and counter runes did their work. The boy was safe for now, but the DNA revelation burned in my mind like acid.
We reached the Blood Howlers secondary safe house - an isolated warehouse on the outskirts converted into a fortified bunker - just as the sun dipped low, painting the sky blood red. Ryker killed the engine and lifted me off the bike with one arm, Leo still in my hold. His golden eyes
