Chapter 13

Excitingly, Healer Cruz and I headed to the address provided by Timothee, with officer Drake in tow.

"Why did you send a message like that out of the blue?" I exclaimed in amazement when Timothee eagerly took my hand the moment I stepped foot there.

Timothee pressed a finger to his lips, silently urging me to hush. I flinched; my lower lip caught between my teeth in a nervous bite.

"What's happening, Lycan?" Healer Cruz asked.

I subtly nudged Healer Cruz, signaling for him to exercise caution and refrain from disclosing our true identities to Officer Drake.

"Are you a police officer?" Timothee's gaze was unwaveringly locked on Officer Drake.

"Of course, can't you see my fancy emblem, Sir?" Officer Drake replied sarcastically.

Timothee led us through a narrow, dimly lit hallway adorned with paintings that seemed to watch us as we passed. The air was thick with anticipation, each step echoing ominously beneath our feet. Finally, we arrived at a heavy wooden door, its surface etched with symbols that seemed ancient yet familiar. With a careful push, Timothee opened the door, revealing a room bathed in the soft glow of candlelight.

"This," he whispered, his voice laced with a mixture of fear and excitement, "is why I called you here."

In the center of the room stood a table, and upon it lay a book bound in leather that seemed to pulsate with a life of its own. My heart raced as I realized the gravity of what lay before us. This was no ordinary gathering; we were on the brink of uncovering secrets that had been hidden for centuries.

"What's this, Timmy?" I turned around slowly, my eyes meeting Timothee's uncertain gaze. He stood there in silence, a mysterious air surrounding him as he hesitated to elaborate on the purpose of the room he had led us into.

"By the Goddess of the Moon, why does this room look like a morgue?" Healer Cruz elegantly waved his hand before his nose, as if dispersing an invisible cloud with a graceful gesture.

"So, this is their ritual room. Seems like they're planning to keep something safe," Timothee responded, his hand cradling his chin.

I gripped his arm tightly, my fingers feeling the warmth of his skin. With a focused gaze, I stared sharply into his piercing blue eyes, searching for any hint of emotion or reaction. Where's Sawyer? Why aren't we focused on finding him? Timmy, what's going on in your head?

Timothee sighed deeply. "Sawyer isn't around. He's already in a safe spot.

"What do you mean?" I hit Timothee's shoulder because I was annoyed.

Timothee rolled his eyes. "I mean he's not here, okay? He's off somewhere safe, out of harm's way. You don't need to worry about him."

"Sorry for the confusion, but may I ask what the reason was behind your request for us to come here, Mr. Hemsworth?" Officer Drake placed his hands on his hips. He let out a deep sigh as he surveyed the chaotic scene in front of him.

Timothee nodded. "I want you to investigate this place because I'm sure they've just kidnapped someone else who isn't my son and committed violence here."

"It's your business rival, right?" Officer Drake asked.

Timothee nodded grimly. "Yes, it's my business rival, and I have reason to believe they're involved in some shady dealings. I need to get to the bottom of this before things escalate even further."

"I will investigate this place soon, Mr. Hemsworth. But can you accompany us to the police station to explain the chronology in full and how your son's situation is?" Officer Drake grinned.

"I have already placed my son in a safe place. Don't look at me as if I want to trick you. This is a serious matter." Timothee interjected firmly.

I cleared my throat. "So, where's Sawyer, Timmy?"

"Instead of arguing here endlessly. It's better we meet Sawyer and you, Lycan. It's better you follow Officer Drake's advice to make a complete report at the police station." Healer Cruz shrugged irritably.

I nodded in agreement, knowing that it was the best course of action. Timothee led the way out of the house, and we followed him to where Sawyer was being kept safe. As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease and worry for what was to come.

As soon as I saw Sawyer curled up inside a silver wardrobe, I embraced him. Sawyer lifted his head and looked up at me with big, blue eyes filled with fear and confusion. I gently stroked his fur and whispered soothing words to him, letting him know that he was safe now. Slowly, he relaxed in my arms and let out a contented purr. I knew in that moment that Sawyer had found his forever home.

"Are you okay?" I whispered, kissing his forehead.

"I am now that you're here," he replied, nuzzling his face into my chest.

Timothee and Healer Cruz stood nearby, watching the touching reunion with smiles on their faces. I couldn't help but feel grateful for all they had done to bring us together.

As we made our way to the police station, I couldn't shake off. This very annoying situation is the first time I have experienced, and it makes me regret underestimating Timothee's repeated warnings that Hunter and Rogue are so dangerous and cunning.

"They didn't hurt you, did they, my dear Sawyer?" I whispered.

Sawyer shook his head, still snuggled in my arms.

"No, they didn't hurt me physically at least. But their words and actions were cruel and hateful." He let out a soft whimper.

"Don't worry, we'll get to the bottom of this," I reassured him. "And I promise, from now on, we will be together always. No one will ever separate us again. I will not let them do this again."

"Why are they doing that, Mom?" Sawyer asked. "Why are they hurting someone?"

Timothee sighed. "Buddy, you'll understand someday. For now, go home with Mom. I have to go to the police station first to sort this out." As Timothee left, I watched his retreating figure and couldn't help but feel a surge of determination.

"Luna, let's go home." Healer Cruz whispered.

As we made our way home, I held Sawyer's hand tightly, vowing silently to protect him at all costs. Once we reached our mansion, I sat Sawyer down beside Asher and looked into his inquisitive eyes.

"Sawyer, I know you have a lot of questions, and I promise I will answer them. But right now, I need you to trust me and know that I will always keep you safe," I said, trying to sound more confident than I felt.

"I love you, Mom," Sawyer replied, his voice filled with innocence and trust.

"I love you guys. You're my treasure." I hugged them tightly.