As the wolves released their vice-like grip, I found myself unceremoniously sprawled upon the unforgiving ground. My entire being throbbed with unrelenting pain, limbs aflame with searing torment, and my head pulsating in an agonizing rhythm.  Blood and sweat had congealed on my skin, forming a repulsive, viscous layer, while the dirt, with cruel intent, invaded the open wounds that now marred my battered frame. The insidious threat of infection loomed ominously over me, a spectral harbinger of doom that would persist long after the immediate ordeal was over. Despite the excruciating pain that coursed through me, I refused to resign myself to death's clutches. I clung to a desperate glimmer of hope, telling myself that my wrist wasn't shattered, my back wasn't torn, and my arms bore no bite marks. It had to be my imagination running wild, right? Admittedly, I still felt as though I were teetering on

As I conducted this frantic self-examination, a wave of disbelief washed over me. I had expected the pain from my prior injuries to linger for days, but there was no physical evidence of the torment I'd endured. Shifters were known for their remarkable regenerative abilities, but the speed at which my body had healed astonished me. However, I couldn't afford to dwell on this newfound resilience; I had more pressing questions. "How long have I been here?" I inquired, my voice filled with a mixture of curiosity and unease, as I turned to Danielle for answers. Her confirmation that I'd been unconscious for nearly a full day caught me off guard. It seemed like mere hours had passed since I'd been in that cave, struggling for my life. My next question held even greater significance, "How long ago was the full moon?" The answer would determine if I had somehow evaded detection by my old pack, or if I was s

Disappointment colored my thoughts as I blinked my eyes open, taking in the dim surroundings. Tony sat perched on a weathered log, his gaze locked onto the enigmatic depths of the forest. The notion of slumber eluded me as long as he remained alert.Summoning my resolve, I ventured over and cautiously took a seat on the log, maintaining a respectful distance. "I understand you may doubt me, but I want to assure you that I'll leave as soon as I'm capable."With his attention still focused on the darkness ahead, Tony responded, "You won't be prepared for a while. You're stuck with us."The vague response left me irked, and I pressed for clarification. "What exactly do you mean by that?"He finally turned to face me and explained, "You're a shifter who doesn't know how to shift, and you have one of the most formidable packs actively searching for you."Disputing his claim, I asserted, "They're not looking for me. They believe I'm dead."His gaze fixed on me, Tony asked, "Did you sever th

  Grateful for Danielle's hospitality, I followed her deeper into the cluster of tents. As we approached, I noticed that the tents were elevated on platforms, connected by well-maintained dirt paths, forming a makeshift village. Although the tents had ample space around them, they were arranged in a general circular pattern, encircling a larger open area. Around this central space, I observed multiple fire pits, a few charcoal grills, and several picnic tables scattered across a grassy common ground. Even in the early morning, a few inhabitants were already active. A small group brewed coffee over an open fire, its enticing aroma triggering my hunger. My stomach couldn't help but protest with a loud grumble, reminding me of how long it had been since I'd eaten. "You could use some breakfast,

  "I didn't do anything in that regard; he was already asking around on your behalf," she said. "Probably ready to be rid of me," I remarked. She shrugged nonchalantly. "Could be. But I heard he was trying to find you a cot, too. So, he must not be counting on you leaving too quickly." "Well, that's very kind of him," I said. "He's got a nice guy streak. He just doesn't let it out often. Especially not around people he just met. You've made quite the impression on him," she said playfully. I responded with a hint of skepticism, "I'm not sure I like what you're insinuating." "You do know sex is normal, especially after a shift," she commented. "Plus, there's the whole perk of being a shifter and not having to worry abou