The days after the Ritual of Reflection felt like a blur to Lily. Each night, she dreamed of the darkness she had confronted, the reflection of herself that had whispered fears she’d never spoken out loud. She was stronger now, but the shadowy figure’s final words echoed in her mind: One day, you will have to face me again.
Despite the unease, she found herself growing closer to Eric. His unwavering support was her anchor, grounding her each time the power stirred within her. Their connection had deepened during the ritual, and Lily couldn’t shake the feeling that, whatever was coming, they would face it together.
But that peace was short-lived.
It was a quiet evening when a sudden call from Esme brought them to the heart of the estate. The pack had gathered in tense clusters, their exp
