The café smelled of roasted coffee beans and vanilla, a scent I had grown accustomed to over the years. The last few customers trickled out, leaving behind half-empty cups and soft murmurs of fading conversations. With a tired sigh, I wiped my hands on the apron before untying it, stretching my arms to ease the stiffness in my shoulders.
The sun had already begun its descent, casting long shadows across the street as I stepped out, locking the door behind me. The cool evening breeze brushed against my skin, carrying the faint scent of damp earth and autumn leaves. It was quiet, peaceful even. But then—
A prickle ran down my spine.
My wolf stirred.
Someone was watching me.
The awareness hit me like a cold splash of water. My senses sharpened, ears tuning into the smallest of sounds—the
