Chapter 9. A New Pup Has Being Born

The words struck Damian like a lightning bolt. Joy, shock, and worry surged all at once, tangling in his chest. It was unexpected, and much more earlier than planned. But then, he was on his feet before the apprentice had even finished speaking. “Lucian, handle—”

But Lucian and Matt were already shaking their heads. “We’re coming with you,” Lucian said firmly.

Without another word, they followed the apprentice and warriors at a near run, the corridors blurring past them until they reached Damian’s residence. Inside, the healer was already hard at work, her hands moving with practiced speed.

The sharp cries of Ella’s pain cut through the air, and each one made Damian’s wolf bristle with restless agitation. Every instinct in him screamed to go to her side, but the healer’s strict order to wait outside chained him in place.

Then—suddenly—the piercing wail of a newborn filled the air. Damian froze. For a heartbeat, time itself seemed to hold still. Then a broad,