To distract myself from the unsettling reminiscence, I cracked open a beer and indulged in its bitter comfort. Yet, my seclusion was not to last, for the sound of approaching footsteps drew near. It was Henry, the ever-faithful friend, who had tracked me down by the river's edge-the very place where Sophia had attempted to take her life.

"The night has grown deeper, Alpha. What brings you here?" Henry inquired, settling down beside me.

"Merely seeking a breath of fresh air," I replied, taking another swig from my drink.

"Care to share some of that?" he asked, and without hesitation, I offered him a bottle. Ever since Sophia's tragic demise,...