Page 79

“The kingdom needs a cure,” I counter. “And I am the one most likely to secure Dr. Sorin’s cooperation.” A lie. I am probably the last person she wishes to see. But the thought of her refusing aid because the messenger was too forceful, too intimidating, is unacceptable.

“When will you depart?” Elder Blackwood asks.

“Tomorrow.” I stand, signaling the end of the discussion. “Make the necessary arrangements.”

The council disperses, leaving only Erik and me behind. “You’re going yourself,” he says, sounding surprised. “Why? I thought you didn’t want to see her.”

I don’t answer immediately, gathering my thoughts. “I don’t,” I finally say. “But if I don’t go, Vane is going to send somebody else or he’s going to go himself. And I don’t trust him not to hurt her to get what he wants. You heard him. I don’t trust him or his daughter.”

Erik studies me. “And if Maya refuses to return?”

“Then, I’ll find another way.” My voice hardens. “But I won’t force her. That was never an option.”

He nods slowly. “I’ll go with you.”

“No.” My refusal is immediate. “The kingdom needs at least one of us here. And this is something I need to do alone.”

Something akin to understanding flickers in his eyes. “You still love her,” he says quietly.

I don’t deny it. What would be the point? The emptiness in my chest where our bond once hummed with life tells me it’s true.

“It doesn’t matter how I feel,” I tell Erik. “All that matters is finding a cure for our people.”

But as I walk away, the lie tastes bitter on my tongue.

GenTherapeutics occupiesthe top floors of a gleaming, glass tower in downtown Seattle. Everything about it speaks of cutting-edge innovation and expensive taste—from the minimalist lobby to the security guards who look like they’ve been genetically engineered for intimidation.

The private jet landed at dawn, and I’ve spent the hours since then reviewing everything Erik could tell me about the company. Specializing in rare genetic disorders and gene-targeted therapies, their work seems very much in line with Maya’s prior fields of research.

She wanted to disappear. If she has rebuilt her life here, do I have the right to disrupt it? Even for the sake of the kingdom?

Losing the connection to one’s wolf is a slow, painful death. The only reason I survived back in that cell was because I am of royal blood; my strength is greater than that of other shifters.

Aria is dying. After her, others will follow. The disease is spreading, and we’re running out of options.

As the elevator ascends, I straighten my tie, a human gesture that feels strange. The human world requires different camouflage—an expensive suit, a corporate demeanor, wealth displayed subtly but unmistakably. The game is different here, but power is still the currency.

The receptionist directs me to a conference room on the top floor, her practiced smile never wavering despite my curt responses to her small talk. The room is sleek and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the Seattle skyline.

I take a seat at the head of the table, instinct placing me in the position of authority. The minutes tick by, each one stretching my already frayed patience even thinner.

When the door finally opens, it’s not Maya who enters, but a young man in a lab coat.

“Mr. Wild?” He extends his hand. “I’m Dr. James Chen, COO of GenTherapeutics. Sorry to keep you waiting.”

I shake his hand, noting the firm grip—a human attempting to establish dominance the only way he knows how. “I was expecting to meet with your head researcher.”

“Dr. Sorin is tied up in the lab at the moment,” he explains with an apologetic smile. “A breakthrough that can’t be interrupted. I’d be happy to discuss your proposal in her place.”

Maya’s name in his mouth sends a jolt through me. So, it is her. A part of me still doubted, still thought Erik’s information could have been wrong.

“No,” I say firmly. “My business is with Dr. Sorin specifically. I’ll wait.”

Dr. Chen’s smile tightens almost imperceptibly. “I’m afraid Dr. Sorin’s schedule is completely booked for the next week. If you’d like to make an appointment after—”

“That won’t be necessary.” I rise, towering over him slightly. “Please inform Dr. Sorin that Griffin Wild is here to see her regarding an urgent matter that affects the lives of hundreds.”

He hesitates, clearly caught between corporate protocol and the intensity of my stare. “I—I’ll see what I can do,” he finally says, backing toward the door. “Please help yourself to coffee while you wait.”