Chapter 55

Alyssa

The forest has always been my place of solace. Now more than ever, I need to lose myself among the trees. Adam's refusal still haunts me, a raw ache I fear will remain forever.

I shift to my wolf form, seeking comfort in the simplicity of four legs and muffled thoughts. My paws carry me to a hidden glade filled with herbs for healing. As I gather chamomile and lavender, their scents soothe my wounded spirit.

A harsh laugh sounds in the distance. I pause, ears pricked. The scent of unwashed humans wafts through the air—poachers. Anger surges in my veins. This is our territory, our home!

I stalk through the brush, spying three men with rifles and knives stalking a deer. Keys jangle at one's waist, prison tattoos on his arms—they do not come as mere hunters.

"Big bucks in these parts, eh boys?" the tattooed man grunts. His companions snicker.

I step into view, growling low as I bare my teeth.

"Look, boys!" the tattooed man exclaims. "Seems we found a bigger game after all."

They t