The journey began at dawn three days later.
Zane drove the reinforced truck, Lina beside him in the passenger seat, one hand on her stomach, the other holding a map Elara had marked with safe routes. Elara sat in the back with two trusted pack warriors—Riven and Mara—both silent, alert, weapons within reach.
The first day was quiet. They stuck to back roads, avoiding highways where rival scouts might spot them. The forest thickened around them, the air growing cooler as they climbed into neutral territory.
Lina felt the baby move for the first time—a tiny flutter, like butterfly wings. She smiled despite the fear.
Zane noticed. Reached over. Covered her hand with his.
“Strong already,” he said softly.
She squeezed his fingers. “Like its father.”
That night they camped in a hidden ra
