Chapter Eighteen: THE BAIT (I)

Alpha Kael’s POV

I walked back into the pack's headquarters, my face schooling a frown caused by disappointment. Another day, another failed search. I couldn't shake the feeling that I was running out of time.

As I entered my chambers, I spotted Akira pacing back and forth, gently biting her fingers, her eyes fixed on me. I knew she was worried, but I didn't have any news to calm her down.

"Kael, how was the search?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.

I shook my head. "Nothing. We found nothing."

Akira's face fell, but she nodded. "I knew it wouldn't be easy."

I took a deep breath, remembering the information she had given me days ago. "Akira, you mentioned that the females who were taken had a regular pattern of visiting the waterside. Do you think that's a coincidence?"

Akira stopped pacing and narrowed her eyes. "I don't think so. I think whoever is taking them is targeting those who go there regularly."

I nodded, a plan forming in my mind. "I need to talk to the others, and