NIGHTMARE

The market square buzzed with activity as Andrea and Rose weaved through the stalls, their laughter mingling with the chatter of pack members and the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread. Andrea couldn't shake the feeling of eyes on her, watching, judging. She stole a glance around and spotted Sandra and her clique standing near the fruit vendor, their gazes fixed on her with undisguised hostility.

Rose noticed it too, her brow furrowing in concern. "Andrea, do you see that?"

Andrea nodded slowly, her stomach twisting with apprehension. "Yeah, I see them."

They continued browsing the stalls, but Sandra's presence lingered like a dark cloud. Andrea tried to ignore the uneasy feeling gnawing at her, focusing instead on selecting the ripest apples and berries. However, as they approached the flower stand, Sandra intercepted them, her cronies blocking their path.

"Well, well, if it isn't the alpha's pet project and her human companion," Sandra drawled, her voice dripping with malice.

And