Chapter thirteen

The sun, peering timidly through the curtains, gave a warm warmth to Jessica's face as she awoke from her nap. Despite the early hour, she couldn't shake the heaviness that hung over her like a thick blanket. She could not recall the last time she had slept comfortably.

The previous night had been filled with a cacophony of agonizing wails and blood-curdling roars that seemed to seep through the walls and into her bones. She had never heard the sound since joining this pack, but it still sent shivers down her spine.

Jessica entered the living room, greeted her parents with a tired grin, and sat down at the dinner table. Warm scents floated through the air, indicating that her mother, Vivian, had already begun breakfast. She couldn't help but be grateful for her parent's reassuring presence. Although she was a self-sufficient young woman, the prospect of facing the world alone was scary.

"Good morning, my mockingbird," Vivian said with a smile that lit up her whole face.

"Good morn