Every choice in war costs something you can't afford to lose.
The SUV pulled up five minutes later. Exactly on time.
Declan's men opened the doors. Marcus's mother stumbled out first. Then his father. Then Sarah, twelve years old and terrified.
All three bound. Gagged. Eyes wide with fear.
But alive.
Marcus made a sound. Raw. Broken. His wolf surging beneath his skin.
"Easy," I said quietly. "Not yet."
"They're right there."
"I know. Hold."
Through the bond, Darius sent his own pain. Watching through my eyes. Seeing the hostages. Understanding what this cost.
Don't do this, he sent. There has to be another way.
Watch, I sent back. Trust me.
Declan gestured to his men. They removed the gags. Allowed the family to breathe. To see Marcus standing there, alive.
"Marcus," his mother whispered. "Oh god, Marcus."
"I'm here, Mom. I'm getting you out."
Declan smiled. "Touching. Now, verification complete. Family's alive as promised. Time for your end of the bargain, Elara."
