Kieran's POV
The veins under my skin burned like fire. I stared at my image in the small pool of water inside the cave, watching the dark lines crawl up my neck. The curse was getting worse. Much worse.
I splashed cold water on my face and took a deep breath. My pack needed me now more than ever.
When I turned around, Elena stood watching me. My loyal second-in-command since Darius left us.
"You look terrible," she said bluntly.
I almost smiled. "Always honest."
"The pack is scared, Kieran. They need their Alpha."
I nodded, pushing away from the pool. "How many lost in the last attack?"
"Seven dead. Twelve wounded." Her eyes softened. "It would have been worse without Sienna. Her fire kept the north entrance secure."
The mention of Sienna made the veins on my arm pulse. Since she'd arrived, the curse had gotten both stronger and weaker. I could feel the rage growing inside me, but somehow, I could also control it better when she was near.
