CHAPTER 44 To Take The Risk

  Autumn

  My mind raced with doubts and questions, and at this moment, I knew for sure what I wanted to do.

  To take the risk.

  As I checked the time and realized it was exactly 5 o'clock, a surge of uncertainty washed over me. Was I being too hasty in believing Lily's letter? There could very well be a trap waiting for me in the depths of the forest, orchestrated by the Darkwater Pack to bring about my downfall.

  Despite the nagging doubts, I couldn't shake the feeling that I needed to uncover the truth, to confront risk. I rose from my bed and grabbed my jacket.

  "Don't tell me you're really going?" Edith's voice echoed inside me.

  "Yes," I responded, my voice steady despite being nervous. "I know how to protect myself." With those words, I met my own gaze in the mirror. 

  "You need at least someone to accompany you," Edith persisted, her concern evident in her voice.