The rain poured relentlessly, drenching the dense forest in a thick veil of mist. Hidden beneath the shadow of an ancient oak tree, a small figure trembled, his white wool-like hair clinging to his forehead. His delicate, fluffy ears twitched at every sound, his golden eyes wide with fear.
Eli knew he was in danger.
His flock had long since moved on, leaving him stranded when the storm struck. Now, there was nothing but darkness, the scent of wet earth, and the faint whisper of the wind through the trees. But that wasn't what sent chills down his spine.
It was the presence lurking just beyond the trees, watching him.
A deep, husky breath ghosted over his ear. Before he could react, a rough voice, laced with amusement and something more dangerous, murmured from behind him:
"A lost little lamb, all alone in the woods? Aren't you afraid of getting devoured?"
Eli froze. A wolf.
Before he could run, a strong, clawed hand grabbed his wrist and yanked him backward, pressing him against the damp bark. His breath hitched as a pair of crimson eyes gleamed in the darkness.
The black wolf towered over him, sharp fangs glinting under the moonlight as he smirked.
"I can hear your heartbeat racing," the wolf murmured, his voice dripping with amusement. "Tell me, little lamb... are you scared?"
To be continued…