I woke up to sunlight filtering through the cabin curtains. My body felt heavy from the late night talking with Darien, but my mind was clear. I lay there for a minute, listening to the birds outside, then pushed the covers back and swung my legs over the side of the bed.
The floor was cool under my feet as I walked to the bathroom. I splashed cold water on my face, brushed my teeth, and pulled my hair into a loose ponytail. I changed into light clothes, black leggings and a gray tank top, something easy to move in if I decided to shift later. I slipped on my running shoes and grabbed a bottle of water from the kitchen.
I stepped out onto the porch and locked the door behind me. The air was crisp, pine scent strong. I started down the dirt path that led toward the main pack trails. I nee
