Desperation

Jared's POV

The cold wind bit at my skin as I crouched outside the cabin, hidden in the thick cover of trees. My heart pounded so hard it almost drowned out the sounds of the night—the rustling leaves, the distant chirp of crickets, and the occasional hoot of an owl. I barely noticed any of it.

All I could think about was Zina. And Asher.

I had been too late. Again.

I clenched my fists, rage bubbling inside me as I stared at the dim light glowing from the cabin's window. I could see movement inside—shadows shifting, figures passing by. My stomach twisted when I spotted Xaden through the window, his smug posture making me want to charge in and break every bone in his body.

But I couldn't. Not yet.

If I messed this up, I'd be putting them both in even more danger. I needed a plan.