The wind snapped at my hair as I stood on the porch, arms wrapped tightly around myself. The night felt wrong, too quiet. The woods beyond Reule’s territory loomed dark and heavy, like something was crouched inside them, waiting. I shivered and rubbed my arms, trying to shake off the feeling gnawing at my gut.

Footsteps creaked behind me. I didn’t need to turn. I knew him; the weight of his steps, heavy and certain, as the earth answered only to him.

"You shouldn't be out ...