Chapter 30

HAZEL

It's already dark now, and I'm wondering if I should have spent the night at Ladia's. The way back is empty— sure, it has always been empty, but it looks even more sinister now. And I can hear the low cries of different animals, which I know I won't be strong enough to fight if they come out to me.

I hear rustling in the bushes at the front, and no matter how silly I can ever be, I have heard enough stories to know not to go any further than I already am. There could be a wild beast, or even worse waiting in there for me to dare to pass through.

A shudder passes through my spine as I think about the wolf that was chasing me in one of my dreams. Only, this time it's real life and I cannot sprout wings to fly to safety.

I turn back and start walking away quickly. The fear that if I run, I'll alert the instincts of something bigger than me and cause it to chase me keeps me walking at a steady pace until I get back to the cottage.

"I was expecting you," Ladia says with a smug look o