For a second, I let myself hope.
But the illusion shattered with a low, guttural growl that vibrated through the trees. My eyes snapped to the forest line as the underbrush shifted. Glowing eyes pierced the shadows—predators emerging one by one into the firelight.
Wild wolves. Starving. Bloodthirsty.
Terror gripped me. “No…”
Amara’s smile grew cruel as she stepped aside, watching them advance. “I won’t lay a finger on the boy. But them?” She gestured toward the beasts. “They’re not under my control.”
“NO!” I screamed, thrashing wildly. “You can’t do this! Call them off, Amara! Please!”
She waved a hand dismissively and turned her back to me, walking away like she was done with the show. “Goodnight, Marian. Try not to scream too much—it won’t help.”
“Amara! Please! Stop! Don’t leave!” My voice shattered as it rose—but she didn’t look back.
The wolves circled my baby now. Saliva dripped from their bared teeth, eyes gleaming like coals, steps slow and deliberate as they closed in. My heart tried to break free from my chest.
“Leave him alone!” I screamed, my voice hoarse and wild. “Get AWAY from him!”
But they didn’t care. A chilling snarl rang out.