JANAYAH

A sharp, piercing cry tore through the air—

And I jolted awake, breath ripping from my lungs, my heart racing so violently it hurt.

Morning light filtered softly through the tall window, pale and quiet, as if the world itself was holding its breath. I sucked in another shaky inhale and realised I was alone.

Alpha Mace’s side of the bed was empty.

Still warm.

Not cold enough for panic—just enough to tell me he hadn’t been gone long.

I pushed myself upright, the covers slipping down my arms, my thoughts tangled and loud. The dream clung to me like smoke, every word etched too clearly in my mind....