BACK TO TOWN

After escaping from Sebastian and Scott, Ava's feet pounded against the earth, her heart racing with every step. She could feel Sebastian's eyes on her, his determination to catch her. But she wouldn't be caught. Not again.

As she ran, the forest blurred around her - the trees became a green and brown haze, the sounds of birds and rustling leaves a distant hum. Her senses narrowed to the thrill of the chase, the rush of adrenaline coursing through her veins.

"Nadia, help me," Ava whispered, her inner wolf stirring.

"We are strong, Ava," Nadia replied, her voice a low growl. "We will not be caught."

Ava's legs pumped faster, her breath coming in short gasps. She could feel Nadia's power coursing through her, urging her on.

"Remember the pain, Ava," Nadia snarled. "Remember the betrayal. We will not trust him."

Ava's mind flashed back to the day she was banished, the memory still raw and painful. She had trusted Sebastian, and he had failed her.

"No, Nadia," Ava panted. "I won't forget.