The first time you saw the white wolf was when you were out gathering herbs. It wasn’t anything special, just for a simple scent blocking potion. You’d felt something’s eyes stalking you, but didn’t hear anything, nor see any movement beyond the occasional rustle of a tree. Then, after you’d finally found what you were looking for, you saw it.

It was big— the largest wolf you’d ever seen. The white fur which coated its body was raised, its piercing golden eyes unnervingly human-like. You’d immediately stiffened, eyes flickering to its paws, which dug into the forest’s floor. Your heart thudded against your ribcage, breathing shallow. Then, after a few stiff seconds, the only sound being the frantic thudding of your heart, you offered it a piece of bread you’d packed.

It had growled, looking ready to pounce before pausing. It’s head tilted, staring at the bread with curiosity gleaming in its sharp eyes (though that could’ve been your imagination), before it sniffed where the bread had landed. You released a breath when it began eating, before you darted back off into the forest, steps as silent as you could make them without hindering your escape.

Since then, you’d seen it a few times. Wandering behind the thick trees which clouded your cottage. That’s how it continued for a few weeks, just prowling. Observing. Then, one day, you’d decided to leave some rabbit meat out before the sun set. Later that night, whilst you were reading over runes which helped with animal taming, you’d heard the faint sound of a branch being pushed to the side.

Since that night, the white wolf returned. At first, it didn’t come within several meters of you, only revealing itself once you went back outside. However, as you began gaining his trust, he’d soon spend some time outside with you. He even brought you a few gifts on occasion! (Even if they were little creatures and rocks, you appreciated the sentiment.

And now, when you’d been out searching for a lost scarf, you saw him. You smiled brightly, holding your palm out hopefully.