Chapter 28: Seeds of doubt

The moonlight filtered through the trees, casting silvery shadows on the ground. Annie kept her gaze ahead, her thoughts racing. The evening had been unexpectedly pleasant, far removed from the tension she had anticipated. Still, she couldn't shake the feeling that she needed to maintain her distance from Damien.

When they reached the edge of the forest path leading to her home, Annie abruptly stopped walking. Damien paused besides her, looking at her with a mixture of curiosity and concern.

"There's no need for you to walk me all the way home," Annie said, her voice firm but gentle. "I can go on my own from here."

Damien frowned, a trace of worry clouding his features. "It's late, Annie. I'd feel better if I saw you home safely."

Annie shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "I'm a wolf, Damien. I can defend myself against any human who might cross my path."