The closer we drew to Night Mist Pack territory, the more restless I became. I couldn’t feel Stefano’s emotions anymore, couldn’t reach his mind through the bond we shared. It left me feeling hollow, fighting the urge to turn Thor around and ride back to Alitos. Only now did I fully understand why mated couples could hardly bear to be apart for even a day; here I was, struggling to breathe mere hours since we’d parted.

Of course, I didn’t share any of this with Roberto or ...