Chapter 4

The moon hang high in the sky, casting its silvery light over the pack gathered around the bonfire. The night air was cool with the promise of change, and Zoe stood in the center of the circle, feeling the weight of everyone’s eyes on her.

This was it. Her first shift. No turning back.

Her heart pounded in her chest, a steady drumbeat of nerves and excitement. She could feel Nila stirring within her, the presence of her wolf more intense than it had ever been. The moon was calling to them, and soon, she would answer.

Sara stood nearby, watching with a mixture of awe and excitement, while Zoe’s parents smiled reassuringly from the edge of the circle. The other pack members had gathered around, their expressions ranging from curiosity to respect.

Zoe closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and let herself fall into the rhythm of the moment. The moonlight bathed her in its glow, and she felt it - Nila rising within her, stronger and clearer than ever before.

“I’m here, Zoe,” Nila’s voice wh