Chapter 18: The Stalker's Game

Lyra's POV

The morning sun filters through my curtains, but its warmth does nothing to dispel the chill that's settled deep in my bones. I've barely slept, the mysterious man's threats echoing in my mind like a sinister lullaby. As I drag myself out of bed, my phone chimes with a new message. My heart leaps into my throat as I read:

"Enough games, little wolf. It's time we met face to face. Tonight. The old willow by Moonstone Creek. Come alone, or there will be consequences."

My hands shake so badly I nearly drop the phone. This can't be happening. How did it come to this?

"Lyra? You up?" My best friend Mia's voice calls from the hallway. "We're gonna be late for training!"

I quickly hide my phone as Mia bursts into the room, her usual exuberance faltering as she takes in my haggard appearance. "Whoa, you look like you've seen a ghost. What's wrong?"

The concern in her eyes breaks something inside me. Before I can stop myself, I'm spilling everything – the mysterious gifts, the threat