THIRTEEN PART 2

"Let's make our way back to the house before your mama awakens," Grayson suggested, mindful of the consequences of staying out all night.

"Oh no, we're in for a big scolding!" Noah exclaimed, worried about the trouble they might face.

Warner chuckled reassuringly. "No, little pup. You were with your pack, surrounded by safety. Moreover, your mama knew exactly where you were. How about a race back to the house?"

Warner and Noah darted towards Aphelion with the unruly energy and swiftness of unleashed hounds of the underworld. Grayson couldn't help but cast a backward glance at the once-innocent cloak now tainted by the act of marking territory. Thoughts of Gabriel's nefarious intentions filled his mind, intensifying his resolve to shield his family from any harm that might befall them.

The desire to escape surged within Grayson, a feeling he had never experienced with such intensity before. Throughout his long existence, he had emphasized to Blake the importance of strategic retreats a