the last ember (6)

The growling intensified, followed by the sound of rustling outside. Sam grabbed a sturdy branch, his grip firm as he stood protectively in front of his family. Jake moved closer to the fire, his hands trembling.

The growl turned into a snarl, and a shape emerged from the darkness—something large and hungry, its eyes reflecting the flickering flames. A wolf. It stalked closer, its breath visible in the cold air, predatory instincts honed by months of survival in the wilderness.

“Don’t move,” Sam commanded, holding the branch like a weapon. The fire crackled defiantly, casting a halo of light around them, but it felt like a fragile barrier against the wilderness.