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“It could be Braxton Hicks.”

“Does it feel like Braxton Hicks?”

She opens one eye. “I don't like your tone.”

“You're having contractions in the middle of a rogue camp.”

“I'm aware, Arlene.”

Another crash sounds behind us.

“Let's get you out of here before Rylan tears the mountain apart.”

“That would be inconvenient.”

“For everyone.”

I wrap my arm around her and keep moving. The tunnel twists twice before I recognize where we are. An old lower passage. It leads toward the eastern side of the camp. If the rogues haven't changed the exit, we can get outside without going through the main fighting.

Three years in this place taught me every tunnel, every turn, and every possible way out. Might as well make those years useful for something.

Another contraction hits Selena before we reach the end. She stops and grabs my arm, breathing through it while I slide an arm around her waist and hold her steady.

“Still Braxton Hicks?”

“Arlene.”

“Just asking.”

“I may kill you.”

“You'll have to get in line.”

She laughs once, but it turns into a breathless groan. I wait until the tension slowly leaves her body.

“Ready?”

“Get me out of here.”

“That I can do.”

I leave Selena inside the tunnel while I step out first. Cool night air hits my face. Howls and growls echo through the camp, and fighting rages somewhere beyond the trees. Smoke drifts through the air, mixing with the scents of blood, wolfsbane, dirt, and too many wolves to separate one from another.

I scan the clearing. Nothing moves nearby. My wolf reaches outward, searching for another threat.

Nothing.

“It's clear.”

I turn back and reach for Selena. She takes my hand and steps out of the tunnel. Her breathing is heavier now, and the moment she's beside me, I wrap my arm around her waist.

“Lean on me.”

“I can walk.”

“I know.”

She looks at me. “Then why are you bossing me around?”