Jiovanni's POV

The cold wind bit at my face as my horse galloped through the drenched forest.

The winding road ahead was lined with twisted branches that stretched out like skeletal fingers.

Every sound-the crunch of hooves on gravel, the rustling of leaves in the breeze-tightened the coil of tension in my chest.

Danger could be anywhere, but hesitation wasn't an option.

I leaned forward, urging my horse to go faster. Melinda's pack awaited me. I doubted she knew I was coming, and tonight, everything-life and power-was on the line.

As I crossed into her territory, shadowy figures emerged from the darkness. Her betas.

They moved like ghosts, their sharp,...