Ch. 23

Dane’s POV

Leaving Raya behind was difficult, but Garret's advice was sound. If I didn't leave now, I risked not making it in time. I had to find out if the spot Amaya marked on her map was truly my birthplace. Before fully entering the woods, I stole one last glance at her beautiful face, then shifted with Lucian. The rush of cold wind against our hot fur was exhilarating, and with the moon on my side, I felt unstoppable.

For a terrifying moment, I caught a whiff of the unmistakable scent of death, the kind only vampires carry. But just as quickly as it came, it vanished. Without time to investigate, I pressed on, knowing the wolves on patrol would handle any rogue vampires daring to approach our pack lands. As I ran towards my destination, the woods grew less dense until I reached a spacious clearing. It wasn't large enough to be considered pack lands, but it could accommodate a decent-sized house.

As I approached the spot Amaya directed me to, I noticed the clearing led to a stee