Julie's breath hitched as Goran unleashed the snarling wolf. Its fur was matted and filthy, its eyes glowed with a predatory hunger that sent chills down her spine. The beast strained against the chain, its guttural growls echoing through the chaotic square.
"Enjoy your little playmate," Goran sneered, his voice dripping with sadistic amusement. He shoved Julie towards the wolf, a cruel glint in his eyes.
Panic surged through Julie. She couldn't fight a wolf, not on her own. But as she backed away, her foot collided with a fallen wooden bucket, sending it clattering to the ground.
The sudden noise startled the wolf, momentarily distracting it. Without thinking, Julie lunged forward, grabbing the bucket in her hand. It was a flimsy weapon, but it was all she had.