Chapter 27. The Hollow Moon’s Last Flame

“By whose order?”

She hesitated.

He took a step closer.

“You were snooping,” he said simply. “And that’s not your place.”

Her mouth went dry. “I only—”

He grabbed her arm. Hard.

“I should report you to Lila.”

Maren’s mind raced. She had to think fast.

Or she wouldn’t leave this room at all.

Maren winced as Beta Cavan’s fingers dug into her arm. His grip was unforgiving, like iron wrapped in flesh.

“I asked you a question,” he growled. “Who sent you?”

Her lips parted, but no answer came. Her mind screamed. She couldn’t lie—he’d smell it. But if she told the truth… he might not wait for Lila’s orders to kill her.

His grip tightened.

“I think,” he said, leaning closer, “you’ve forgotten your place, girl.”

Suddenly—

A voice cut through the tension like a blade.

“She’s with me.”

Cavan turned sharply.

A figure stood in the doorway.

Tall. Hooded. Wrapped in the plain cloak of a