Chapter 20. The Power Within

Ally's POV

The forest floor is a blur beneath my paws, each step sending jolts of pain through my frail body. Dawn moves with laboured breaths, her silver fur matted and her once graceful gait reduced to a stagger. My wolf form used to be a source of strength; now it's just a reflection of the prolonged abuse that Nathan, with his twisted love, has inflicted upon me.

"Ally, you can't run from me!" Nathan's voice rings in my mind, a dark promise laced with possession. I can feel his presence closing in with every heartbeat. But I push forward, because submission is not an option- not anymore.

Leaves rustle behind me, a warning that Poppy is likely slinking in the shadows, her deceptive green eyes watching my every move. She covets my position at Nathan's side, though why she would want to endure his cruelty is beyond my comprehension. Perhaps the ambition that fuels her ruthlessness has blinded her to the reality of his nature.