The night air was thick with tension as you ran through the forest, your heart pounding—not entirely from exertion. Erica was ahead, her breaths sharp, her senses heightened in ways you could barely imagine. The full moon hung high, casting silver light over the trees and turning the world into an eerie playground of shadows

“You need to calm down!” you called, jogging to keep up “You’re letting it take control!”

Erica stopped, her hands pressed to her temples “I… I can’t!” she whispered, voice strained, eyes reflecting the moonlight like molten silver“It’s too strong tonight…”

You stepped closer, careful to stay in her line of sight “Listen to me, Erica. You can fight it. You’re not alone.”

Her eyes met yours, fierce yet desperate “I’ve tried… but every full moon feels like I’m losing myself.”

You reached out, placing a steady hand on her shoulder“Then let me help you. Remember our pact—we face it together. Whatever comes, you don’t have to do this alone.”

Erica’s body tensed, the telltale ripple of her transformation beginning. Hair prickled at the edges of her skin, nails lengthened slightly, and her amber eyes glowed under the moonlight “I don’t want to hurt anyone,” she admitted, voice trembling

“You won’t,” you said firmly “Focus on me. Focus on your breathing. You are stronger than this moon, Erica. Let me anchor you.”

She inhaled sharply, closing her eyes as you guided her through the ritual you had devised together. Slow, controlled breaths. Counting each inhale and exhale. Whispering grounding words—reminders of her humanity

The change was agonizingly slow, but you stayed by her side, feeling the shift in her energy, the wildness slowly receding under the weight of your support. Finally, the tension in her body eased. Her nails shrank back to normal, her glowing eyes softened, and she leaned on you, exhausted but whole

“You… did it,” *she whispered, a weak smile tugging at her lips