Austin's POV

I followed the blood trail through the trees, my breath coming out rough and uneven. Every step felt heavier than the last, like my body already knew what my mind was refusing to accept.

The trail ended behind a large oak.

I stopped short.

The wolf clan doctor lay there, half-hidden by roots and shadow. His body was still. Blood soaked into the ground beneath him, dark and thick.

“No…” My voice came out hoarse.

I dropped to my knees beside him. I pressed my fingers to his ...