Gloria
As I ran, the noise from the bar faded behind me, replaced by the uneven chorus of shaken voices and nervous laughter.
“Those werewolves are terrifying…”
“Oh, don’t say that—I’m a werewolf too.”
“That’s because you’re not strong.”
I couldn’t help it. A small, almost private smile curved my lips as my boots struck the pavement. Fear, respect, awe—it all blurred together in the wake of power. Tonight had torn away illusions for a lot of people. For me most of all.
I slowed, inhaling deeply.
Epoch.
His scent cut through the city like a beacon—cool night air, rain-soaked stone, and that unmistakable undercurrent of strength that made my pulse quicken. I followed it instinctively, letting it guide me away from the bright streets and into the quieter veins of Missoula.
The alley
