Instincts Unleashed

Ethan didn't say a word as Troy backed away, muttering something under his breath before disappearing into the crowd. Normally, a run-in like that would have ruined Ethan's entire day. But now?

Now, he felt alive.

His senses buzzed with newfound clarity. The dull, gray routine of high school felt different—sharper, more vibrant. He could hear the hushed whispers in the halls, the way people spoke his name with curiosity instead of mockery.

"They can feel it, too," he realized.

But it wasn't just the others noticing the change. He was noticing it, too.

As he passed the cafeteria, the scent of food—greasy fries, burnt pizza, and stale bread—filled his nostrils. But beneath it, he could smell something... different. Something richer, stronger.

People.

Not just their sweat or perfume, but something deeper. Their pulse. Their heat. The blood pumping beneath their skin.

Ethan gritted his teeth and shook his head. No. Focus.

This wasn't normal. This wasn't human.

An Unexpected Ally

"Ethan."

A voice pulled him from his thoughts.

He turned to see Lena Hawthorne standing in front of him. Long dark hair, piercing green eyes, and a reputation that kept most people at a distance. She wasn't popular, but she wasn't ignored either. She was... different.

And right now, she was looking at him like she knew something.

"You've changed," Lena said, tilting her head slightly. "I can see it in your eyes."

Ethan tensed. "What are you talking about?"

Lena smirked. "Come on. You think I don't recognize it? The way you're moving, the way people are reacting to you?" She stepped closer, lowering her voice. "You're waking up, Ethan. And I bet you have no idea what's happening to you."

His breath caught in his throat.

She knew.

Lena leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper.

"If you want answers... meet me after school. And don't keep me waiting."

Then, just like that, she was gone.

Ethan stood frozen, his mind racing.

Who was Lena Hawthorne?

And how the hell did she know about what was happening to him?

One thing was certain.

His life would never be the same again.