Ava’s POV
The corridor outside my chamber buzzed with whispers. I heard my name, Kane’s name, and then another word that froze my blood.
“…Alpha Lucas…”
My stomach twisted, a sick heaviness filling me. I shoved myself off the chair, ignoring the sting of the half-healed wound in my side. The two guards at my door straightened instantly.
“What did you just say?” My voice came out sharper than I intended, almost a growl.
The younger of the two guards glanced nervously at the older. “Alpha Lucas has returned… wounded.”
My heart stopped. “What?”
The older guard bowed quickly. “The healers are with him, my lady. He’s stable—”
I didn’t wait for more, my bare feet slapped against the cold stone as I sprinted down the hall. Pain shot through my ribs but I didn’t slow down.
When I turned
