POV: APHRODITE
Dawn comes too quickly and not quickly enough.
I wake before the sun rises, my body tense with anticipation and dread. Today we leave pack lands entirely. Today we cross into territory where pack law doesn't reach. Where hierarchy means nothing. Where we become something else.
If the twins actually follow through.
I push the doubt away and focus on breaking down my small camp. Around me, others are doing the same. Lyra moves efficiently, rolling up blankets and securing supplies. Cassian and Bastien work in silent coordination, checking weapons and rations.
But the twins are nowhere to be seen.
"They left about an hour ago," Lyra says quietly, noticing my searching gaze. "Draco said they needed to think."
My stomach drops. "Did they say they were coming back?"
"No." Lyra's expression is carefully neutral. "But they took nothing with them. Their packs are still here."
