JAYDEN After my brief conversation with Vanessa, I quickly informed the pack about our plan of action for when the bloodsukers return. They all agreed and appeared prepared for whatever challenges they might bring, but the anguish on their faces from losing our members was palpable. As I gazed into the roaring fire, I couldn't help but imagine the anguish the families left behind might be going through. I couldn't help but blame myself for not being able to protect them. The weight of guilt settled heavily on my shoulders, threatening to crush me under its immense pressure. I knew deep down that I couldn't bear the responsibility for every loss, but it didn't make the burden any easier to bear.I took a deep breath, trying to steady my racing thoughts. It was crucial for me to stay focused and composed for the sake of the pack. They were counting on me to lead them through this darkness and I couldn't afford to let my self-doubt consume me.With determination, I turned to face t

CATRIONA I dropped my hands in shock as Sandra's words hit me like a ton of bricks. "He murders his mates.The weight of her statement overwhelmed me, leaving no room for coherent thoughts. Before I could process it further, Gabriel abruptly grabbed Sandra by the neck, choking her. Everyone who was minding their businesses gasped in shock as others started disappearing away.Despite struggling to breathe, Sandra managed to speak. "Are you going to kill me like those other women?" You've crossed the line, woman, Gabriel growled. In an instant, he snapped her neck.The sound of Sandra's neck snapping echoed through the air, sending shivers down my spine. Time seemed to freeze as the weight of what had just happened settled in the atmosphere. The witches stood frozen in a mix of shock and fear, their eyes wide with disbelief.My mind raced, desperately trying to process the horrific scene unfolding before me. As Sandra's lifeless body fell to the ground, Gabriel slowly turned his gaz

CATRIONA I stared wide-eyed at the saliva rolling down my bare skin, fear flooding in as the memory of Jayden's nearly lifeless body came rushing back. What is going to happen next? Am I going to end up in the same half-dead state as Jayden was? How many days will it be? And what about the child inside me? I instinctively touched my belly, filled with trepidation at the thought of my unborn child facing the same fate as me. How unlucky am I?Gabriel was immediately by my side, attempting to communicate with me but his words were incomprehensible, though I could sense his anxiety and anger. I'm scared he would kill another person. Based on Gabriel's account of what the saliva did to Jayden, I expected an immediate reaction when it came into contact with me. However, it took longer for the effects to manifest. Gradually, I felt my larynx becoming blocked, making it difficult for me to breathe. Desperately gasping for air, I clutched at my throat. Gabriel's grip was strong, and h

CATRIONA l gazed wide-eyed, still processing what just happened where I hurried over to Jayden, as he appeared to be in pain. My love and concern for him compelled me to reach out, but instead, a powerful gust of wind blew through me, separating us. I stumbled backward, my heart pounding in my chest.Fortunately, Gabriel was behind me and caught me before I hit the ground. His strong arms wrapped around me, providing a sense of stability amidst the chaos. I clung to him, grateful for his presence in this bewildering moment.Without hesitation, I turned to face the witches, my Voice trembling with a mix of fear and anger. "Did you do this? Are you responsible for what just happened?" I demanded, my eyes narrowing as I awaitedtheir response.The witches exchanged glances, their expressions filled with surprise and confusion. One of them with silver hair, stepped forward, her voice gentle yet resolute. "No, we hadnothing to do with it,'' she replied.My mind raced, trying to make sens

JAYDENI froze in place when my so-called vampire brother burst out of the pack house, somehow managing to get his hands on Catriona. "I've had enough, little brother," he said. Everyone paused including Gabriel, waiting to see whom he was referring to as his brother. Gabriel was quick to react, glancing from me to the vampire. His face turned red with fury, and could tell he wanted to charge at my brother and break him in half. As satisfying as that would be, it was also impossible. Doing anything foolish would put Catriona in danger.My brother approached me confidently, exuding an air of satisfaction. He sniffed Catriona's neck and then turned to me, remarking, "She smells good." He twirled his bloody tongue over his fangs. Gabriel's voice echoed angrily in my mind, demanding, "Who is this bloodsucker to you, Jayden?" His wolf paced restlessly around him while bombarding me with questions. "Let her go. It's me you want." I said but instead, his smile grew wider, as if he was enjo