The storm had grown worse while they slept—or tried to. Rain pelted the cabin with the force of fists, wind shrieking through broken windows and the gaps in the wooden walls. The forest beyond wasn't just dark now; it was alive. Shadows slithered between the trees like smoke, flickering and twisting as if aware of every movement within the cabin.
Kael's teeth were clenched so hard he could feel the ache in his jaw. His hand hovered over the knife at his belt, though the blade felt inadequate against whatever had been hunting them. Milo's eyes were wide, darting to every shadow, while Aaron lay crumpled against the wall, still weak from whatever attack had struck him down the night before.
"Elena," Kael whispered, his voice hoarse. "Check the barricades again. Make sure the doors are solid."
