Elena’s POV:
I looked back one final time, the distant outline of the pack slowly fading into the misty trees behind me. The weight of everything I was leaving behind sat heavily on my shoulders, but I didn’t let myself hesitate. With a deep breath, I stepped into the thick forest ahead, each stride taking me deeper into unfamiliar territory.
The further I walked, the more unruly the wilderness became. The bushes grew higher, their thorny branches clawing at my skin and clothes like they were trying to drag me back. The crunch of leaves beneath my feet echoed far too loudly, and every rustle, every crack in the distance made my heart jump into my throat.
I was terrified.
My eyes darted around as I walked, scanning the shadows for movement.
‘Should I turn back?’ The thought crept in l
