The sun hadn't fully risen when Lesley stood on the marble balcony of the Star Blood Pack estate, her gaze fixed on the dark forest that ringed the palace like a sleeping beast.

 A light breeze stirred the hem of her satin robe, but her mind was far from the wind. Her fingers clenched around the message she'd read again and again throughout the night.

 "Tell the others nothing. I've found her. I will explain when I return – Ryder"

 No royal seal. No detailed briefing. ...