Vera's POV

The next morning came faster than I expected. The air felt colder, heavier, as if the sky itself knew what kind of day it would be. I stood in front of the mirror, already dressed and prepared, but nothing could calm the storm building inside me.

My heart thudded loudly. Today was the second stage of the challenge—the part where I had to prove my wolf side. The part I dreaded most.

Lisa was ready too. I had caught a glimpse of her outside, her eyes sharp like a blade, her ...