~HAZEL~

When I open my eyes, Ashton is nowhere to be found. I glance around the dim interior of the cave, the shadows dancing softly on the rocky walls, and realize it's still night outside—an inky darkness blanketing the landscape despite the bright moonlight. A wave of confusion washes over me as I wonder where he could have gone at this hour, leaving me alone in this secluded place.

A flicker of fear creeps into my mind at the possibility of him venturing out to hunt for food under ...