Katie fled the party. The music. The eyes. Him.
She ran through the forest, heart tearing against her ribs, until she reached the lake. Her sanctuary.
The moon bathed the water in silver light. She knelt by the edge, watching her reflection twist and shimmer.
Her eyes flashed crimson.
What am I?
Pain lanced through her spine. Her body convulsed, heat searing her veins.
Images flooded her mind: a woman with fangs dripping blood, a man with silver eyes singing people into madness, a wolf the size of a house.
Katie screamed—and the forest screamed back.
Liam heard it.
He shifted mid-run, fur tearing through skin, bones snapping. His wolf was monstrous and royal, dark brown with streaks of black and gold. He tore through the trees and skidded to a stop at the lake.
Katie collapsed into his arms.
Her skin was too hot. Her breath came in ragged bursts. Power rippled off her in waves.
He held her tighter.
"I've got you. I swear."
But miles away, deep in ruins soaked in moonlight and blood, another man rose from stone and ash.
Lucian.
His eyes were ice and silver. His fangs long and aching. And his heart—long dead—beat once more.
"She's awake."
His voice was a promise.
And a threat.