Chapter 6: The Alpha’s Downfall

Lucien didn’t let go of Serena. He cradled her against his chest, her body cold and fragile in his arms. Blood streaked her face, and her breathing was shallow, each inhale a painful rasp. But she was alive. For now. Lucien pressed his lips to her temple, his body trembling as he rocked her. “I’ve got you,” he whispered. “I won’t let anything happen to you.” Serena didn’t respond. Her eyes fluttered closed, her pulse weak beneath his fingertips. The bond still pulsed between them, thin and fragile, like a thread about to snap. But it was there. Lucien stood, lifting her carefully. His legs nearly gave out, but he forced himself to move, stumbling through the forest. He had to get her somewhere safe. Somewhere away from the Hollow’s magic. The forest shifted around him, branches bending and twisting like living things. The shadows pressed close, watching, waiting. “She doesn’t belong to you,” the wind whispered, cold and bitter. Lucien bared his teeth. “She’s mine,” he snarle