Chapter 96

The moon hung low in the sky, casting its pale light over the forest as I made my way back from a late-night patrol. My wolf, restless as always, had urged me to stretch my legs and clear my head after the tense meeting with the other pack leaders. Negotiations were never my strong suit, and tonight's discussions had been particularly exhausting.

As I approached the edge of the forest, a familiar scent drifted on the breeze—Aimee. My heart skipped a beat. I knew she often sought solace in the woods, much like I did, but there was something different in the air tonight. The scent was tinged with fear and sadness, and I quickened my pace, worry gnawing at my insides.

The trees parted to reveal a small clearing, and my heart dropped at the sight before me. Aimee was kneeling on the ground, cradling Emily's limp body in her arms, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs. The scene was haunting, the moonlight casting long shadows across the ground.