Living in the Shadow

"Run!" said""

Over the sound of breaking branches and guttural growls resonating across the deep woodland, Luca's yell hardly registered. Twice of telling was not necessary. Pushing onward, I avoided low-hanging branches and the sharp roots that might have tripped me at every step. My legs burned.

Under me, the snarls became louder. Close hunters from the competing pack shook the earth with their heavy footsteps as they drew closer.

This way! Kael's voice cried out from ahead, his form almost discernible in the night. The necklace around my neck pulsed weakly, its brightness throwing a small light amid the choking darkness.

"Aria, let me go! "Luca's palm slid over mine, his presence steadying as he dropped into step with me.

I am not bidding you farewell. I snapped, even though my lungs protested.

You won't have to, he snarled. "Just keep running."