Chapter 72

　　The metallic tang of blood hung in the air like a phantom, a barely-there scent that only the wolves' sharp noses could detect. As they sniffed at the breeze, their instincts were on high alert, for unspoken danger lurking just beyond the reach of their senses. 　　Celeste's brow furrowed with worry. Her skin prickled with a sudden chill, and the hairs on the back of her neck stood up like sentinels. The scent of blood mingled with another, more familiar scent – their Alpha's scent. 　　It was clear that the others had also caught the faintest trace of Byron's scent in the wind, as a trace of relief and hope crossed their faces. 　　Nancy's eyes glittered with excitement as she gazed at Jeremy, and he gave her a small smile that spoke volumes. 　　Celeste had no doubt that if Nancy were in her wolf form right now, she would be wagging her tail and even yipping with joy at Jeremy. She looked away from them and headed forward. 　　The wolves remained wary, their senses attuned to any possible da