Preparations in Northridge started and carried a tension sharp enough to slice through steel. For three days the pack moved like a beast with its eyes fixed on prey, with alpha Logan at the helm, unrelenting and merciless in his resolve.

Logan had spoken only little since the revelation of Freya’s departure. His commands were brief, reserving his words for when he finally met Freya. Everyone knew better than to test him. The scarf never left his possession; it was clenched in his hand when ...