Hudson, who usually spent his days at the border-forts, was home today.

Avery believed it was vital to honor the tradition. Her intent was pure; Harrison had been the only one who truly protected her when she was a child. He was the grandfather of her heart, even if the rest of the pack viewed her as an Omen.

Receiving no growl of permission, Avery assumed the heavy doors had muffled her knock. She pushed them open and stepped inside.

The room smelled of old parchment and the sharp, metallic tang of Hudson’s blood-toxins. She found the Alpha asleep on a narrow cot in the corner, still wearing his armored...