#Chapter 242: Freedom

Agnes The forest around us was quiet except for the gentle rustling of the leaves overhead as a breeze wound its way through the trees. Sunlight filtered through the canopy above, casting dappled patterns on the forest floor. It was a beautiful day. Perfect for my first shift in almost a decade. “Are you ready?” Elijah, leaning against a tree nearby, asked. I nodded, although my stomach was twisting and turning. Eight years. It had been eight long years since I had last shifted. Now that the moment was finally here, I was admittedly nervous. Could I even do it anymore? Did I even know how? “Stop,” Elijah said, sensing my fear through our newly formed mate bond. It would take some getting used to, keeping my emotions from seeping into his mind. Although I wasn’t entirely certain whether I’d want to hide my feelings from my mate. “Stop thinking about all the what-ifs. Just feel her. Listen to her.” “He’s right. Let go. It’s going to be fine.” My wolf