Riley - POV
Earlier today, Carol informed me that Nick had requested my presence at tonight’s meeting. There was an unmistakable urgency in the way she mentioned it. Despite the obstacles, I managed to get permission for Alpha Tyler to travel with Carol to the southern territories. As we approached the portal, Carol kept her composure, but when the gateway spat us out, the disorienting sensation of teleportation hit me hard. My head spun, and I stumbled, only for Carol to catch me before I could fall.
“You’re not used to teleporting,” Carol observed, her eyes sharp. I nodded, drawing in deep, steady breaths to regain my balance.
“Living away from the island has its consequences,” she continued. “You’ve spent too much time among humans; no wonder you’re not accustomed to this.”
“I prefe
