A chorus of deep, familiar growls echoed through the forest.
A massive wolf burst from the underbrush, followed by the rest of his pack.
They crashed into the pursuing wolves like a tidal wave of fur and fangs.
The forest exploded into snarls and snapping jaws.
Relief washed over Lara.
"Gray..."
A smile flickered across her exhausted face.
"Thank you."
The gray wolf didn't spare her a glance. He lunged straight into the largest of the attackers, forcing the pack backward. The battle behind them became a blur of teeth, claws, and echoing howls.
It was enough. Just enough.
Lara turned back to the man leaning heavily on the sword.
He had collapsed to one knee. The torch trembled in his hand. His breathing had grown shallow. His eyes were closing.
She dropped beside him.
"Hey..."
Her voice lost its edge. It became almost gentle.
"Stay with me."
His lashes fluttered. The warmth of her breath brushed his ear.
