chapter 9: Mafian's wolf pack

CARA’S POV

The minutes stretched on after Debby left, leaving me alone in the cottage. My heart raced with anticipation, a mixture of fear and excitement swirling in my chest. I’d been cooped up for so long, suffocating in this small Cottage with nothing but my thoughts, bad and troubling thoughts that I didn’t want to remember.

The idea of stepping outside, of seeing something beyond these dull and plain walls, was a blessing I would embrace with joy.

Finally, I heard the soft crunch of footsteps on the forest floor. Debby emerged from the dense woods, her arms filled with clothes and a few bags that resembled a hunter’s box. I peered at her with a confused look, but her face was a mix of determination and calm, which somehow reassured me.

“My lady,” she began as she entered the cottage, “I’ve brought what you’ll need for your disguise. We’ll have to be quick and careful. It’s important that no one recognizes you.”

I nodded, eager to begin. The sheer idea of going against the so- ca