Shock, surprise, puzzlement, anger, worry, and sadness punched his gut all at once, leaving him breathless. Knight's knees buckled, and he found himself leaning against the wall, still clutching the ring in one hand.

"Fuck it, it's too late. I messed up."

Then he remembered her state when he found her in the forest, and his stomach dropped.

Maybe it's for the best. This way, my pack can't hurt her anymore.

Knight wanted to howl in anger. He wanted to shout and just ...