Sofia walked back to her own room, the weight of the day pressing down on her.
"You are too kind, Sofia," her wolf's voice echoed in her mind, sounding wary. "Kindness is a gift, but in our world, it can be a trap. Remember, do not trust anyone so easily."
"I know," Sofia whispered to the empty room. "I'll be careful. I just couldn't leave her there." She sighed and fell into bed, drifting into a restless sleep.
The next morning, Sofia woke up feeling a bit more refreshed. She sat on the sofa with her phone, scrolling through job listings. She was determined to earn her own way, even with the stack of cash Alaric had left her.
Suddenly, the doorbell rang. Before she even reached the door, a powerful, wild scent of pine and lightning filled the air. She knew that scent anywhere.
"Damien," she murmured.
