I woke with a start, heart racing, momentarily disoriented by unfamiliar surroundings. Soft lamplight cast gentle shadows across polished wooden floors. The scent of baby powder and milk hung in the air. A quiet, rhythmic breathing filled the silence.
The nursery. I'd fallen asleep in the rocking chair beside Elijah's crib.
My racing pulse slowed as reality reasserted itself. Not Silver Fang. Not Victoria's basement. Not the forest floor with my insides exposed to the night air. I was safe at Crescent Moon, in the communal nursery where I'd volunteered to help with night duty.
Elijah stirred in his crib, tiny fists waving as if battling dream monsters. His face scrunched briefly before relaxing back into sleep, the distinctive birthmark catching the low light. Unlike my mark that covere
