Chapter 19: Jayleen

We were running out of time. Kain's attack could happen at any moment and we had to be prepared. The scent of unease lingered in the air, a tangible manifestation of the uncertainty that lay ahead.

Michael stood beside me, the usually jovial expression on his face replaced by a grim determination. "The final group of elders and pups left this morning, Alpha," he reported. "They've been secured in the safe houses. The Beta team is guarding them."

I nodded. "Good. What about our defense lines?"

"Theta team has set up around the town's perimeter," he answered. "Epsilons are scouting the borders for any signs of Kain's pack."

I surveyed the map spread out on the table before me, marking out key defense points and escape routes. The safety of the pack was my responsibility, and I was determined not to let them down.

"What about Skye?" I asked, turning to face Michael. My heart clenched at the thought of her being caught in the crossfire.

"Elijah has been keeping an eye on her," he replied.