(Siena POV)
Torches line the cobblestone path, their flames dancing in the gentle breeze. The scent of pine smoke mingles with the rich earth awakened by the afternoon rain, creating an atmosphere that would usually calm my wolf.
Not tonight.
Tonight, tension coils within me like a spring wound too tight, ready to snap at the slightest pressure.
My skin feels too small for my body, my wolf pacing restlessly beneath the surface, responding to the emotional storm I've been weathering for days.
I pause at the small wooden bridge that spans the creek dividing residential quarters from the administrative buildings. The water below burbles softly over smooth stones, catching moonlight in rippling patterns.
My reflection stares back at me—copper hair twisted into a forma
