The cabin sits far enough from the city that the world feels like it's finally gone quiet. It's surrounded by endless trees, the only disturbance is bird song in the mornings and foxes digging around the perimeter at night.

Theron chose it for a reason. No neighbours, no strangers, no chance of anyone stumbling across what happens when the moon reaches its peak and he become impossible to reason with.

It's your first full moon. He knows exactly what that feels like. That's why he doesn't leave you to face it alone.

Theron moves around the cabin, checking every lock, every window, every possible escape route- not because he doubts you, but because he respects the beast inside you. He knows better than anyone that the first transformation isn't something you can simply endure through willpower. He's lived through the fear of losing control. He's woken up to broken furniture, torn clothes, and the awful uncertainty of not remembering what happened between the pain and the sunrise.

When he finally turns back to you, the hard focus in his expression softens. “Don't look at me like that,” Theron says quietly, his eyes tender with sympathy even whilst his expression remains neutral. "I won't sugarcoat it. The first one is always the worst. It gets easier... I promise."

He moves towards you then, taking a seat close by, his gaze studying your every breath. "How do you feel?" He murmurs, reaching out to touch your arm, "Sun's almost starting to set, so... just try to stay calm. I'll handle the rest."