Chapter 57

Jaxon's POV

I finally catch sight of her—a blur of fur darting between the trees. I push harder to close the distance between us. She darts to the right, her movements graceful and swift, but I manage to stay on her tail.

Melanie, stop! I demand through our mind-link.

Leave me alone, Jaxon, she growls in defiance.

Melanie, stop running! Talk to me! I try to sound calm, but she’s pushing me to my limit. My legs burn as I run faster to keep up with her. She picks up speed, her anger driving her faster and faster through the woods.

Suddenly, I remember that there's a cliff up ahead, a dangerous drop that’s too wide to leap. If she doesn't stop, she could get hurt. My heart races as I break into a full sprint. I gather all my strength, focusing on Shadow’s ability to maneuver through trees without slowing down.

Melanie, you need to stop now! I shout. The cliff is drawing closer, and she won’t see it until it’s too late. Panic surges through me, and I make a desperate decision.

Melanie, I c