Chapter 36: Another Way

(Asher's POV)

The world around me was a blur of chaos and noise, but all I could focus on was the empty space where Lyra should have been. My mind kept replaying the moment she collapsed, her silver hair fanning out around her like a halo as she hit the ground. One second, she had been radiant, her eyes shining with love as we exchanged our vows. The next, she was gone, snatched away in the confusion of the Rogue attack.

I paced the length of my study, my hands clenched into fists so tight my knuckles had turned white. The scent of smoke and blood still clung to my clothes, a constant reminder of the battle that had erupted during what should have been the happiest day of our lives.

"Alpha," Beta Kieran's voice cut through my turbulent thoughts. "The pack is secured. We've tended to the wounded and reinforced our defenses. What are your orders?"