Chapter 67

AUBREY'S POV "That deer was tougher than it looked," Silver complained as we paused to catch our breath. "And I'm exhausted. Can we head back now?" I agreed, turning to retrace our steps, only to realize we had ventured much farther than intended. The trees here were different - older, twisted, their branches creating dense shadows even in the afternoon light. A chill ran down my spine as I recognized we had crossed the final border into forbidden territory. "We should go," Silver said nervously. "This place feels wrong." I was about to agree when it hit me - a scent so familiar that it stole my breath away. Honey and lilies. Mom. The fragrance flooded my senses, bringing with it a rush of memories: spring mornings in our garden, warm hugs that smelled exactly like this, the way she'd brush my hair while humming old lullabies. It was home and hope and everything beautiful wrapped into one perfect scent. "Aubrey," Silver warned, but I was already moving, following that precious trail. "