The forest was dense, and the shadows seemed alive, shifting with every step. I could feel his presence behind me — close, heavy, and intoxicating.
"Why are you here?" My voice trembled despite my attempts to sound brave.
"Because you are mine," he said again, softer this time, almost… tender.
Then it happened. A surge of power ripped through me — primal, wild, undeniable. My blood sang with a strength I didn't know I had.
"You're not weak," he murmured, his golden eyes studying me with awe. "You're… extraordinary."
I wanted to run, but my legs wouldn't obey. My heartbeat thudded in my ears as something massive moved in the darkness. Eyes glowing red reflected the moonlight, larger than any wolf I'd ever seen.
Cliffhanger: It was watching… waiting… and it wasn't alone.