Chapter 22: The Ultimatum

Lyra's POV

The old willow by Moonstone Creek looms before me, its gnarled branches reaching out like grasping fingers in the pale moonlight. My heart pounds a frantic rhythm as I approach, every rustle of leaves and snap of twigs setting my nerves on edge.

"Hello?" I call out, hating how small and afraid my voice sounds. "I'm here. Show yourself."

For a long moment, there was nothing but eerie silence. Then, a figure emerged from the shadows. Tall, broad-shouldered, his face obscured by a hood, it was the mysterious man who'd been haunting my life for months.

"Ah, little wolf," he purrs, chilling my spine. "I knew you'd come. You always were too curious for your good."

I stand my ground, fists clenched at my sides. "Enough games. You said you could help me. Prove it."

He chuckles, the sound low and menacing. "So impatient. But very well. I can indeed clear your name, Lyra. I have evidence that proves Elara's deception. One word from me, and your innocence will be unquestionable."

Hope