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"Yes, Alpha."

I look at Darian. His face is wet with tears. His breathing is ragged. His steps aren't as smooth anymore.

“Darian. We're close.”

“How far?”

“Keep running.”

“HOW FAR?”

“Minutes.”

His eyes drop to Arlene.

Something in his face changes.

Minutes.

That's all he has to keep her alive.

DARIAN'S POV

Minutes.

I can do minutes.

"You hear that, baby? We're almost home."

No answer.

My heart stops.

"Arlene?"

Nothing.

My wolf lunges against our bond. Mate?

Silence.

No.

I push more Alpha energy into her. Her heartbeat stutters once, then again before weakening beneath my arm.

“No.”

I give her more.

My legs burn.

"Take it."

Her wolf barely moves.

Mate, take.

Nothing.