Chapter 38. Broken

PEONY CRIMSON'S POV

The hours slipped through my fingers, evading my attempts to keep track. I was lost in the depths of the subconscious realm that brought me together with Emily. The wolf dropped to the ground with her gaze averted from mine.

Her ears were flattened, and her tail was tucked between her legs. I found her in that state, and she emitted whimpers that stirred a deep pity within me.

"Emily." I sidled up to her, my voice filled with anticipation. I reached out, my fingers rubbing against her soft, silky gray coat. She remained perfectly still.

"Emily, look at me!"

"Leave me alone." She let out a whimper. Two paws on top of her muzzle.

"I can't; you know that. I'm stuck here until... my body finds its consciousness." I didn't know why I had to explain that when we both knew it.

A dry wind caressed the meadow, calling for a boisterous rustle to break the stillness. Emily's physical appearance appeared unscathed, while her pride lay shattered and in ruins. I couldn't blame h