Ava’s POV

“Your father?” Ella’s smile vanished instantly, concern flooding her eyes. “What happened? Anything I can do?”

I took a deep breath, gripping my tactical manual tightly. “Shadow Creek guards arrested my dad last night. They’re calling him a traitor, saying he caused Alpha Carter’s death.”

Ella gasped. “What? William? No way! That’s impossible! He’s the most loyal person in the entire pack!”

“I know. But if I can’t prove he’s innocent, he’ll be executed at the next full moon.” My voice cracked.

“Have you seen him? What did he say?”

I shook my head with a bitter laugh. “Treason is the worst offense. They won’t even allow family visits. Mom’s falling apart.”

Ella squeezed my hand, giving me space to collect myself. When she spoke, her voice was gentle but firm. “So that’s why you want to see Blake again? You think the Alpha King can help?”

“He’s the only one with the power to step in on another pack’s treason execution.” I sighed. “Jackson showed up last night. Said he could use the Blood Protection Right to save my dad.”

“Really? That’s great! What’s he want in return?” Ella asked, but seeing my face, immediately caught on. “That jerk.”

“He wants me to be his secret lover,” I hissed, my eyes flashing. “After he marries Sophia, I get to be his underground mistress.”

“That dirty, scheming son of a—” Ella unleashed a string of curses that would make a sailor blush. “How dare he? He dumps you, rejects the fated mate bond, and now wants to turn you into his side piece?”

We fell quiet for a moment. Suddenly, Ella perked up. “Wait, back to Blake. You said he gave you calming herbs and then kissed you?”

I nodded, cheeks warming.

“Ava, Blake Morgan doesn’t give a damn about strangers. He must be into you.” Ella said excitedly. “If Jackson can use that Blood Protection thing, then the Alpha King can definitely do more.”

“I can’t use that kiss as leverage,” I said firmly. “I need to ask for his help straight up.”

Ella’s expression softened. “It’s not leveraging, Ava. It’s giving him another shot to get to know you. For both of you.”

The Shadow Creek prison stood at the edge of the territory, its gray stone walls embedded with silver to weaken werewolf strength. I stood before the heavy iron doors, stomach in knots.

“I’m here to see William Rivers,” I told the guard.

The guards exchanged looks. “Not happening, Rivers. He’s charged with treason. No visitors allowed.”

“I’m his daughter,” I insisted, stepping forward. “I have a right to know what’s going on.”

An older guard shook his head. “Pack law is clear. Treason cases mean no contact before trial, even family.”

“Can you at least tell me if he’s okay?” I pleaded.

The guard glanced at the faded mark on my neck, eyes flashing with a hint of sympathy. “He’s hanging in there. But find someone with pull to help, girl. Clock’s ticking.”

As I left, I found my mother Sarah waiting in the parking lot, eyes swollen.

“They turned me away too,” she said softly. “Won’t even let me bring him clean clothes.”

I hugged her tight. “Mom, Jackson offered to help Dad, but his conditions are awful.”

Sarah nodded wearily. “Your father wouldn’t want that, either.” She paused. “Any other options?”

I thought of Blake’s kiss and the storm in his eyes. “Maybe. But it’s a long shot.”

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Ella asked nervously, watching me adjust my Shadow Creek warrior uniform.