Aurelia POV
I stood frozen for what felt like an eternity, watching that distant shadow between the trees, my heart hammering against my ribs while I waited for any additional sign of movement that might confirm exactly what I was facing.
Nothing stirred.
The shadow remained perfectly still, and after several tense moments, I began questioning whether my exhausted, pregnancy-addled mind had conjured a threat from ordinary shifting light and shadow patterns among the trees.
Cautiously, I took a step forward.
The shadow didn't move.
Another step, my herb basket forgotten at my feet, curiosity gradually overtaking my initial fear as I approached the location where I glimpsed that suspicious shape only moments before.
By the time I reached the spot, nothing remained except undisturbed f
