A raven came at dusk and it landed on my balcony rail with a scroll tied to its leg with crimson thread.. the mark of Lycan royalty.

My pulse stuttered as I untied it.

“My father is dead. I am to wear the crown now, but honey, none of it matters without you beside me. Meet me at the river’s bend during the crescent moons last rise, under the willow. This time we run, Odessa. This time we don't look back. Jon”

My hands trembled as I read it again. The world tumbled in a sharp, aching ...