I gasped in shock when I caught sight of the poor condition it was in.
Under the moonlight, its fur was torn and matted, and there were even branches and leaves tangled in it. It didn't look like it knew the difference between right and left, and once it appeared in the clearing, I could even see it wince and pause in surprise as though it was in disbelief that it had managed to walk out of the woods.
I held my breath, watching with wide eyes as the wolf slowly looked back and forth, confused. Then, as though it could sense that I was watching it, it snapped its head to face my direction, its eyes staring straight at me.
The sudden movement caused me to move back in surprise. I staggered, my hands slapping over my mouth instantly in an attempt to stifle my screams. In my chest, my heart pounded rapidly against my ribcage at the sight of the beast.
