(Emma)
The moment Silas said Lauren was already in the ceremonial room, my heart sank. It was happening, and we were running out of time. I exchanged a glance with Darius, and I could see the same panic I felt in his eyes.
"She's already started," Silas said, his voice serious. "The pack is there. They're cheering for her."
"No," I whispered, shaking my head. "She can't... They don't even realize what's happening."
Darius's grip on my hand tightened. "We have to stop her."
Silas nodded. "The barrier she put up is strong, but if we work together, we might be able to break through."
Without waiting for another word, we sprinted toward the ceremonial room. My heart pounded as we ran. I couldn't let Lauren take this from me. Not Darius. Not our pack. Not our future.
When we reached the
