Chapter 23

Marcus POV

As the night wore on, a hush fell over the camp. Moonlight through the cracks in the leaves cast a dappled shadow, reflected in every corner of the camp. I haven't had peace of mind since that terrible tribal battle. Roberta's recent weakness and exhaustion worried me.

I decided to go back to the pack house and check on Roberta. Although I have deliberately distanced myself from our relationship, I still worry about her situation here.

The other reason is that I need to be close to her, too. My strength has been declining rapidly, and I need to find Roberta to regain my strength.

I walked home at a brisk pace, only an uneasy premonition rising in my heart. The guard at the gate respectfully stepped aside when he saw me. I flung open the door, my heart clenched at what I saw.

Roberta was pinned to a chair by two strong men. Zora was holding a sharp knife. Blood gushed from Roberta's wrist and dripped to the floor. Her face was pale, and she was obviously very weak.

"Stop!" I