Tubs of wet wipes helped clean off the worst of the blood before they donned their clothing. The smell of foreign cat permeated the inside of the car, but no one complained. Dead cats smelled better than live ones. It was long after midnight when they returned to Marcus's ranch. Nicolas's pack shared a vehicle after dropping off Columbus and his wolves. He wanted to hold his mate and sink into the velvet softness of her body. He hoped she waited up for him. His wolf needed her close. Once she was more adept at fighting, he would take her with him. He knew she would remain upset for a while, but he wouldn't unnecessarily risk her life. They entered the cabin to find every light ablaze and their anxious pack mates waiting. He looked around the room searching for his mate. "She isn't here