Chapter 66. Deceit and Blame

Daniel POV

Skyler and I strode across the frost-covered clearing toward the packhouse, our footsteps muted against the damp earth. Inside, dim lantern light flickered against sturdy wooden beams, and several wolves—still emanating tension from the recently disbanded meeting—lurked in small clusters. Their low growls and flicking tails betrayed the unease that lingered in the air. I swallowed hard, forcing down the tight knot in my stomach. I needed to find my father quickly; this debriefing had already stretched longer than my nerves could bear. Every second I delayed meant another heartbeat full of dread.

This trip had already gone more shockingly awry than I could ever have foreseen. First, our harrowing encounter with vampires who had tested every ounce of our pack’s resolve. Then, the tense meeting with Alpha Mason, whose icy scrutiny had made my blood run cold. All I wanted now was to hold Elizabeth close, to press her trembling form into my arms and reassure her th