Nicklaus’s POV

"Yes, he is still alive," I assured her, mustering a hopeful smile. Yet, deep down, I was aware that Mateo was likely enduring unimaginable suffering at the hands of that malevolent pack.

She instinctively placed her hands over her heart, seemingly relieved. "That's a relief. So, what happened that I'm not aware of?" she inquired, her curiosity evident.

"At first, I didn't want to burden you with it. And secondly, I wasn't sure how to break the news that we might need ...