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The wolf stood in the center of the woodland path, lingering as if waiting for me. At first I didn’t see the giant creature, mottled in shadow, with fur so black it looked almost blue. Once I did, I froze, clutching my baskets as if they could shield me. I could drop my wares and run, but if a predator of this size chased me, I was doomed.
After a good, hard glare in my direction, it slipped away, leaving me shaking with relief.
If I was wise, I’d return to the market and ask one of the villagers to escort me through the dangerous woods. Any one of the strapping young farm boys would be happy to see me home--my long, honey- blonde hair drew them like bees to nectar--but I preferred to make my way alone. My sisters and I lived at the end of the village, and I could be there before dark
