Chapter 193

Alexander's POV The car fell silent after Summer's question about Lyra. I tightened my grip on the steering wheel, watching the sleeping girls in the rearview mirror before answering. "I wish I knew," I finally said, keeping my voice low. "It's been five years of searching with no answers." Summer turned to me, her face half-illuminated by passing streetlights. Even now, the sight of her stirred something primal in me—a need to protect, to possess, to cherish. My wolf paced restlessly beneath my skin, constantly alert in her presence. I nodded grimly. "Alpha Lucian Cross was my prime suspect. That bastard was Lyra's mate. When she disappeared..." "You think he took her?" Summer asked, her voice low. "I sent teams into his territory—again and again. Not a trace of her," I said, jaw tightening. The frustration of those fruitless searches still burned in me like an old scar. "Part of why I considered the arrangement with Isabelle was strategic," I admitted. "Her family has deep connection