The first light of dawn brought a new sense of urgency to the pack. The palace was still and quiet after the tumultuous battle of the previous night. Exhaustion hung in the air, but so did a sense of triumph and relief. Avery's mates, Shane, Sean, Cruz, and Romeo, were already awake, their expressions a mix of concern and determination as they looked at her.

"Avery, we need to get you to the hospital," Shane said gently, his eyes filled with worry as he took in the bruises and cuts marring ...