Chapter 13: Return to the Forest
328words
This time, I was more cautious. I parked my car at a different trailhead, one further from where I'd encountered Liam before. I kept my equipment minimal—just a small backpack with collection tools and my research notes. If I was discovered, I wanted to be able to move quickly.
The forest seemed different now that I knew its secret. Every rustle in the undergrowth, every distant sound made me wonder if I was being watched by eyes that weren't entirely human.
I found a small clearing with the moss species I was studying and set to work, carefully collecting samples while keeping alert to my surroundings. The scientific part of my brain was fully engaged, but another part remained vigilant, aware that I was essentially trespassing in werewolf territory.
I'd been working for about an hour when the feeling hit me—that prickling sensation of being watched. I straightened slowly, scanning the trees around me.
"I know you're there," I called out, trying to sound more confident than I felt. "You might as well show yourself."
For a long moment, nothing happened. Then, with barely a sound, Liam stepped from the shadows of the trees. His expression was thunderous, eyes flashing between green and gold.
"I told you not to come back," he said, his voice dangerously quiet.
I swallowed hard but stood my ground. "I'm not on your private property. This is public land."
"All of this forest is my territory," he growled. "I warned you what would happen if you returned."
Despite my fear, I forced myself to meet his gaze. "Are you going to hurt me, Liam?"
The question seemed to take him aback. The gold faded from his eyes, replaced by confusion and then something like offense.
