The wolf swayed on its feet, ribs sharp beneath its hide. It had gone without food for over three days now. Adrian’s chest tightened at the thought. He crouched slowly, whispering, “Let me see. Please.” The river hissed between them like a judge deciding their fate.
The growl came faint but determined. Adrian froze, then pressed his palm flat against the earth. The muffled cry rose again, fragile as breath. He saw the wolf’s ears twitch toward the sound, its gaze flicking back to him. For the first time, something like hesitation softened its stance.