As Aurora and her alphas stood at the edge of their fate, the moon was low in the sky and cast an eerie glow over the old forest. The weight of predictions and curses pressed down on their shoulders, making the air crackle. Usually hidden by shadows, Damien's eyes met Aurora's with a fierce purpose. "We're in this together, no matter what," he said in a low rasp that made her spine tingle.

Ethan put a hand on her shoulder. His easy smile was gone, and he looked very serious. "We've dealt with every problem that's come our way. We won't give up now." Aurora was more determined because she...