Aiden's Point of View
I slow my pace as the forest begins to thin, my breath coming in steady pants, the pounding in my chest finally dulled to a quiet thrum. The run helped clear my mind, somewhat. The edge of the storm still lingers inside me, but at least now it isn’t screaming.
I shift back into my human form, the familiar jolt of bones snapping and fur receding sharp but manageable. The air is cool against my skin, carrying the earthy scent of pine and damp leaves. I head for the tree where I always stash clothes. A pair of loose black shorts hangs from the lowest branch, right where I left them.
I tug them on, brushing dirt from my legs as I move. My skin is still damp with sweat, my muscles buzzing with exertion, but I welcome the soreness. It makes me feel present. Anchored.
Th
