ALEXIO'S POV 

I stood outside the pack house, my eyes fixed on the window where I knew Ciara would be sitting. It had been days since Bestian's kidnapping, and I knew she was alone and vulnerable. The thought sent a pang of guilt through me, but I pushed it aside. I had a role to play, and I was determined to see it through.

I breathed in, preparing myself for the performance of a lifetime. I had to be convincing, and had to make Ciara believe that I was there to help her. I adjusted my expression, adopting a concerned and sympathetic look.

I knocked on the door, and after...