Caleb asked if I was up for a walk with him. I gave him a cautious sniff, and he did indeed smell like Caleb. I squinted at him, seeking assurance. He promptly showed me his perfectly trimmed nails. I was puzzled at first, but he explained, “If I were a shapeshifter, my nails would have turned blue.” It was a detail I hadn't noticed about the rogue who had attacked me.
Despite his reassurance, I remained hesitant, and I could see the same wariness mirrored in my parents' expressions. They couldn't afford to be impolite to the Beta of the Pack, so they left the decision up to me. Yet, they weren't privy to the secrets I held. I caught a glimmer of concern in my father's eyes as I agreed to the stroll. With an assuring smile to my parents, I grabbed my jacket and stepped out with Caleb.
Ca
