Ruby's POV

The moment I opened the door, relief washed over me. It wasn’t John.

It was Austin’s Beta, standing there with his usual composed look, a small bag in his hand.

“Alpha asked me to bring this,” he said, holding it out. “A healing ointment. It should help with the deeper wounds. He’s away at the tournament now.”

I took the bag carefully. “Thank you.”

He gave a brief nod. “He said to tell you not to worry. He’ll be back soon.”

When he left, silence settled over ...