Keeley was up at dawn, staring moodily over the terrain. The snows had almost fully melted during an unexpected warming trend, most unusual for January. She hadn’t slept the night before and her eyes were dull and achy.

　　Maddie’s counsel had been invaluable. Keeley needed to hear the other woman’s wisdom. ’Twas no use in hiding in her chamber sulking. She was no longer the frightened young girl terrified to be on her own without the support of her clan.

　　She had the McCabes now. She had family. And friends. Good and loyal friends. Rionna and her father couldn’t hurt her.

　　If it killed her, she would smile through Alaric’s...