Chapter 52

Chapter 52

THALIA

“I circled the perimeter. I caught a strange scent by the waterfall. I thought I’d check if any rogues had gotten out… but I found you.”

I don’t know if it was just a coincidence or something deeper. But I immediately felt the tension.

From behind me, I heard Aldric’s heavy breathing. He was silent, but I could feel his stiff presence.

“Your timing is perfect, Ryker,” Aldric said coldly, with a hint of anger in his voice. “Do you really like appearing in places where you’re not invited?”

“Sorry, Alpha,” Ryker replied, his smile not fading. “I didn’t know… you were having a private hike.”

“And you don’t need to know,” Aldric snapped. “Don’t forget we have a chain of command.”

I looked at them both. Aldric—obviously trying to control his emotions. Ryker—relaxed, but his eyes were c……