The forest welcomed me with open arms. Tall pines and oaks stretched toward the sky, their leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. I slipped behind a thick tree trunk and quickly removed my clothes, folding them neatly into a pile.
My skin prickled with goosebumps in the cool air. I closed my eyes and let my wolf take control. The familiar burn spread through my limbs as bones cracked and shifted. In moments, I stood on four paws, my brown fur a stark contrast against the forest floor.
I took off running, letting the wind rush through my fur. This was freedom—the only freedom I had left. No triplets. No Lilith. Just me and the forest.
The image of Lilith lying in bed, surrounded by the triplets, flashed through my mind. The concern on their faces as they hovered around her made my chest tighten with an emotion I refused to name. Jealousy had no place in my heart. Not anymore.
