Chapter 254: The Road Ahead (Tyler's POV)

(Tyler’s POV)

The rumble of the rental car beneath me felt steady and monotonous, the miles stretching on endlessly as we made our way toward the Aspenwood Pack lands.

I glanced over at Ryder, who was tapping his fingers restlessly on his knee, clearly agitated by how long this was taking. His frustration was almost palpable.

I sighed heavily, watching the trees blur past us as I replayed the events of that morning in my mind. We’d both been dead to the world, the exhaustion finally catching up with us after what felt like an eternity of searching for Kate. I hadn’t wanted to sleep, but when my head hit the pillow, it seemed like my body made the decision for me.

It was Ryder’s phone that had jolted us awake. The piercing ringtone had pulled me out of the dark depths of unconsciousness and I remember Ryder sitting up groggily, fumbling for his phone.

It had been Jenna.

I didn’t hear much of the conversation, just the low murmur of Ryder’s voice as he paced up and down the room.

When he