Ava: Running

The haunting howls of wolves echo through the night, sending fear deep into my soul.

I shudder.

The strange shifter with the drugs curses under his breath. "They're on the hunt," he says, his voice low and urgent.

Lucas' arms tighten as he runs. It's not the most comfortable, with all the jostling, but he manages to run while holding me as though my extra burden doesn't affect him at all.

How long has it been? Hours? That he's maintained his pace without faltering. I can't help but admire it, even as I worry.

"It's going to be okay," he murmurs, his tone cold with determination.

We pick up the pace, the shadows of the forest seeming to press in around us as we hurry along. The howls grow louder, closer, sending icy tendrils of fear slithering through my veins.

"How much farther?" I ask, my voice a hushed whisper.