章 20: MARK ME MATE

Antonio didn't answer right away. He looked out over the

darkened landscape, his thoughts once again drifting to Rachel. "I'm trying to

be," he finally said, his voice heavy with resignation.

Olivia stepped closer, her hand reaching out to rest on his

arm. "I know this isn't easy, Antonio. But we're in this together now. We have

to be strong, for the pack."

Antonio nodded, but the gesture felt empty. He knew Olivia

was right, they were bound together now, by duty if not by love. But the void

left by Rachel's absence was something that no amount of resolve could fill.

"I just need some time," Antonio said quietly, pulling away

from Olivia's touch.

She hesitated, then nodded. "I understand," she replied,

though her tone suggested otherwise. "We'll get through this, Antonio. We have

to."

Antonio didn't respond. Instead, he turned back to the