Kaelen's POV
The afternoon light streamed across my desk, casting long shadows over the territorial maps and financial reports scattered before me. Hours had passed since I'd immersed myself in pack business, anything to keep my thoughts from drifting to the empty breakfast table this morning. To Lyra's conspicuous absence.
For the first time in days, my mind had settled into something resembling focus.
A sharp rap on the door destroyed that peace instantly.
"Come in."
The gate guard who entered looked like he'd rather be anywhere else. His shoulders were rigid, his face pale. The kind of expression that comes from delivering news you know will unleash hell.
"Alpha." He dropped into a quick bow. "We have unexpected visitors requesting entry."
I placed my pen down with deliberate control. "Identify them."
"Luna Helena from Willow Brook pack. She's accompanied by her daughter Daphne."
The blood in my veins turned to ice.
