ADAM

Sage’s absence sat in my chest like ice.

Even with the mate bond humming steadily between us—even with the steady, undeniable proof that she was alive, strong, unbroken—I couldn’t shake the tension coiled in my spine.

She was still out there. Alone.

I could feel her through the bond: a fierce, focused presence, a mind burning with purpose. Every so often, a soft tug brushed against my awareness—a silent reassurance. Don’t worry. I’m fine.

But I worried anyway. I always would.

I wanted to go after her. Wanted to abandon the council hall, shift, and run until the world blurred, until I found her. Wanted to stand at her...