CHAPTER 34

  Elena's POV

  As I knelt in the warm sunlight filtering through the trees, the sweet scent of lavender mixed with the earthy aroma of sage surrounded me. I carefully harvested the herbs in the pack garden, a serene place where the vibrant colours of the plants provided solace and comfort. For me, this was a sanctuary—a space where I felt connected to something while providing a good distraction from my worry for Alec.

  Just as I reached for a sprig of rosemary, a low growl disrupted the peaceful ambiance. My heart raced as I straightened, instinctively scanning the area. From the shadows of the trees emerged two rogue wolves, their eyes gleaming with a predatory intensity that sent a chill down my spine.

  "Elena Reed," one of them snarled, stepping forward. His fur was a dark, matted gray, and the scars crisscrossing his muzzle hinted at countless battles. "We've been looking for you."