The SUV winds up a long, private driveway, gravel crunching beneath its tires. I press my forehead against the cool glass of the window, watching as manicured gardens and ornate fountains scroll past. After twenty minutes of driving through dense forest, this sudden display of wealth and refinement is jarring.
The vehicle comes to a stop in front of what can only be described as a mansion. My breath catches in my throat as I take in the imposing structure. Three stories of elegant stone and gleaming windows rise before me, the architecture a perfect blend of modern design and classic grandeur. It makes our pack house back home look like a cottage in comparison.
Home. The thought sends a fresh wave of pain through my chest. Somewhere out there, my aunt is being held captive because of me, and here I am, arriving at what looks like something out of a fairytale.
I step out of the SUV, my legs stiff from the long ride. Instinctively, my eyes search for Anton, but he's already disappeared.
