The feeling didn’t fade.
It followed Lily all the way home, a tight, aching pull beneath her ribs that refused to loosen. By the time the cabin came into view through the trees, her head throbbed and her nerves felt scraped raw.
“She’s still there,” Lily whispered as Derek parked the truck. “I can’t shut it out.”
Derek cut the engine but didn’t move right away. His grip tightened on the steering wheel, knuckles whitening.
“That means the distance is closing,” he said. “Or the connection is getting stronger.”
“Or both,” Lily murmured.
They stepped out into the cool afternoon air. The cabin looked the same, quiet, peaceful, innocent, but Lily no longer trusted appearances. Not after the council. Not after the forest answered her call.
Inside, Luna paced in restless circles, tail flick
