Hours had passed since Avery's last encounter with the rogue lord, and the cell had grown darker and colder. Her body ached from the repeated beatings and the strain of trying to escape. She lay on the dirty mattress, her mind racing with thoughts of her mates and the pack, trying to keep her hope alive.

Suddenly, the heavy door creaked open again, its rusty hinges protesting. Avery's heart leapt in her chest. She quickly sat up, her eyes straining to see who was entering. The dim light ...