**ALPHA JACK CAMERON’S POV**
I watched my injured warriors return from battle, and a few were missing. It was clear their army was stronger than ours. I’d have to involve everyone next time.
Caleb, my Beta, knocked softly and entered. His furrowed brow indicated he had reached a conclusion.
“I’m sorry, Alpha. They were well-prepared and anticipated our moves,” he said, regret in his voice.
“Couldn’t you have just seized her and run?” I pressed, frustration rising.
“She wasn’t there. We thought we picked up her scent, but it belonged to a male,” Caleb explained. I leaned forward, tension coiling in my muscles. “A mate?”
“Not exactly. It was a strange echo of her scent. I’ll be surprised if he makes it out alive,” he replied gravely.
“Good,” I said coldly, feeling a mix of satisf
