Chapter 25: Xander's Dilemma

Xander's POV

The first rays of dawn paint the sky in hues of pink and gold, but I barely notice the beauty. My world has narrowed to a single, devastating fact: Lyra is gone.

I pace the confines of my room, every muscle taut with tension. The mate bond between us thrums with a dull ache, a constant reminder of her absence. How could I have let this happen? How could I have driven her away?

A knock at the door interrupts my spiraling thoughts. "Xander?" my father's voice, tinged with concern. "The pack is waiting. We need to discuss... recent events."

I suppress a growl of frustration. The last thing I want right now is to deal with pack politics. But duty calls, as always.

"I'll be right there," I call back, forcing my voice to remain steady.

As I make my way to the great hall, whispers follow in my wake. News of Lyra's disappearance – and the accusations against her – has spread like wildfire. I catch snippets of conversation, each one stoking the fire of doubt burning in my chest.

".