Leah traversed Barduff Castle's stone hallways, uncertainty weighing heavily on her thoughts. Samuel Odwolf's name hung in her mind like an unsolved query. Is he indeed her brother? Why had he arrived at this time, and why had he been hiding in the shadows instead of coming out in the open?
Sensing that she was upset, Serafina put her tiny hands into Leah's as though to steady her. The child had questioned, "You believe him, don't you?" Leah hadn't been able to respond to her.
Leah could still picture Gwen's earlier smirk. Leah was aware that the Luna had laid a trap and that she needed to be cautious if she wanted to avoid getting caught.
Jacob called her to his study that night. His face was covered in flickering shadows as the fire in the hearth crackled. He motioned her to take a seat.
He stated without introduction, "I've sent word to the elders to verify his claim." "We will know soon enough if he is really your kin."
Leah nodded, exhaling. "I'm grateful, Alpha."
Jacob examined her intently. "Are you positive you don't recall anything about him?"
She paused. "Nothin'. This pack is where I grew up. Is there any reason why I wouldn't remember my brother?
Jacob's countenance was unreadable as he leaned back. "Remembering things can be difficult."
They were interrupted by a knock on the door. Paul Lyall entered, his expression solemn. "We're having trouble."
Jacob stood up. "What is it?"
Paul gave Leah a quick look before continuing. "The inmate has gotten away."
Leah felt a shiver go down her back. "How?"
Paul gave a headshake. The guards were discovered not conscious. There is no indication of forced entry.
Jacob's expression hardened. "Someone helped him escape!."
Gwen. It was an instantaneous and indisputable thought. Anger building, Leah balled her fists. This was just another piece in Gwen's game, which was becoming more and more deadly every day, if she had planned it.
Jacob looked across at Paul. "Increase patrols by twofold. I want him located."
After giving a nod, Paul vanished into the hallway.
Jacob and Leah locked eyes. "Remain close until we find out what's going on."
She agreed, but she knew deep down that this was just the start of something much more sinister.