Emma balanced the paper bag of pancit, puto, and Coke bottles carefully as she walked the moonlit trail. The forest was hushed except for the chorus of crickets, the air cool on her skin. She was humming softly to herself, her heart buoyant.
One year. Our first anniversary. I wonder if he remembered. Maybe he'll surprise me. Oh, Emma, don't be silly—it's too early to dream of marriage. We still have so much to learn about each other. But still…
Her cheeks warmed at her own thoughts.
The hut appeared through the trees, lamplight glowing faintly from within. She quickened her step, grinning. I'll surprise him. He'll laugh and say I didn't have to, but I know he'll love it.
"Adrian?" she called softly. "I brought pancit. Let's celebrate!"
No answer.
She frowned. "Adrian? Are you asleep already?"
Then she heard it.
A sound like no human voice—half scream, half groan—tore through the hut's thin walls. It was raw, guttural, like a wounded animal fighting for its life.
The bag slipped from her fingers, food scattering across the trail. Her heart thundered as she bolted forward.
"Adrian!"
She flung the door open.
And froze.
Adrian was on the floor, writhing. His spine arched, bones cracking audibly as his body contorted. His hands dug into the wooden planks, muscles stretching, skin rippling as though his form was being torn apart from within. His legs twisted, elongated, hooves splitting the air as his torso rose higher, merging with the powerful body of a horse.
It was violent. Grotesque. Nothing like the gentle man she loved.
Emma's breath caught in her throat. She clutched the doorframe, unable to move, her brown skin gone pale under the lamplight.
At last, the transformation stilled.
Adrian stood in his Kabalan form, chest heaving, sweat gleaming on his skin. His mane spilled over his shoulders, eyes glowing like firelit amber. He turned—and saw her.
"Emma," he rasped, horror and longing in his voice. He lifted a trembling hand toward her. "Don't be afraid."
But she was.
Emma stumbled back, shaking her head. "No… no… no!"
Her body moved before her mind could catch up. She turned and ran, branches slashing her arms, roots clawing at her feet. The forest blurred with tears, every step driven by raw terror.
Behind her, Adrian staggered forward, too late.
"Emma!" His roar shattered the night, deep and anguished.
She didn't look back. She ran until her legs nearly gave out, until the forest gave way to the safety of her grandmother's house. She collapsed at the door, gasping, her skin clammy white, her eyes wide with shock.
The man she had planned to surprise with dinner on their first anniversary was no man at all.
The man she loved was a monster.