The silence that descended upon the cabin was deafening in the wake of Luna's cries. Evelina froze, her breath catching in her throat as a thousand frantic thoughts raced through her mind.

Had their pursuers already tracked them to this remote hideaway? She clutched her daughter closer, murmuring hushed reassurances as she strained her preternatural senses for any telltale sounds from beyond the cabin walls.

At her side, Angus had also gone utterly still—save for the subtle flaring of his nostrils as he scented the air currents. His wizened features settled into grim lines, confirming Evelina's worst fears.

"Company's arrived, pup," he growled lowly. "And not the sort to be...