Stefano's POV
The blood trail led us straight into Deephowl territory. I should have stopped at the border, should have waited for permission. But when I saw that first drop of crimson on the leaves, fresh and still warm, all protocol went out the window.
"Alpha, we can't just cross…" Marcus started.
"Then stay here," I snapped, shifting into wolf form mid-stride. "I am getting my mate."
Four of my most loyal wolves followed without hesitation. The others, including Marcus, remained at the border, conflicted between duty and caution.
I didn't care. Every drop of blood on the ground was a spike of pure rage in my chest. Aurora was hurt. Aurora was bleeding.
And someone was going to die for it.
The trail led deeper into the forest until I heard it. A man's voice, cold, saying words that pierce my heart.
"Foolish child."
I didn't think. I just attacked.
