Page 33 of Howling Holidays

"Emily?" Logan says quietly, concern furrowed on his brow. "Are you alright?"

His touch brings me back to reality, and I nod, smiling at him. "Yes, Logan. I’m fine. I was just thinking how I'm exactly where I need to be."

"Good," he says, returning my smile. "Because we need you, Emily. You've become an important part of this journey, and my life."

"Logan's right," Callie chimes in, her violet eyes filled with warmth. "We couldn't have come this far without your help."

"Then let's continue," I command, my voice steady and strong. "Together, we'll break this curse and protect Everwood."

As the group murmurs their agreement, I feel a surge of determination course through me. No matter what obstacles lie ahead, I know we will face them united, as one. It finally feels like I’ve found a place I belong, and I’ll stand beside my new friends for this fight. The battle against the shadow shifters has only strengthened our determination, fueling our commitment to safeguard the town and its people.

For now, the darkness has been pushed back. But as long as the curse remains unbroken, it will never be truly gone. We are ready to confront whatever challenges await us, and together, we will ensure that light prevails over darkness. We take a moment to help check on those with injuries and come up with a plan.

"Alright, everyone," Logan announces, his voice commanding the attention of the assembled group. "We've faced a lot today, but we can't let it slow us down. We need to press on and head for the heart of the forest.”

"Logan's right," Bonnie adds, her steely gaze sweeping over the crowd. "It's time to take action and put an end to this curse once and for all."

As I look around at the determined faces surrounding me, I marvel at the unity that has formed among the town residents, wolf shifters, and witches. Just moments ago, we'd been thrown into chaos by the shadow shifters' attack, and now we stand together, unyielding in our shared purpose.

"Logan, what's the plan?" Ethan asks, his focus unwavering. His arm is already looking much better since his shifter magic helps him heal more quickly than a human.

"Once we're ready, we'll set out in small groups," Logan explains, gesturing to a hastily drawn map of the forest. "We'll converge at the heart, where Emily and I will perform the ritual and blood sacrifice. Bonnie and her coven will circle us and recite the incantation to break the curse, while everyone else gathers around in a circle of protection. "

"Callie and I have prepared protective charms," Bonnie informs us, holding up a small pouch filled with intricately crafted talismans. "They should help shield us from the shadows."

"Thank you, Bonnie," Iris says, accepting one of the charms with a nod of gratitude. "Your wisdom and power are invaluable to us all."

"Emily," Logan says, turning to me, "you'll be with me, Ethan, and Callie. We'll lead the way and make sure the path is clear."

"Understood," I reply, my heart pounding with anticipation. Though the task ahead is daunting, I am eager to contribute to breaking the curse – not just for the sake of Everwood, but for myself as well. This town, these people, and especially Logan have become more important to me than I could've ever imagined in such a short amount of time.

"Before we go," Logan addresses the group, his amber eyes blazing with conviction, "I want to say how grateful I am for everyone's support. It means more than words can express."

"Logan," Iris says softly, placing a reassuring hand on his arm, "you were born to be our leader – your father would be proud of the alpha you've become."

"Thank you, Grandma," he murmurs, his voice thick with emotion.

"Let's make him proud," Ethan chimes in, clapping Logan on the shoulder.

"Agreed," Logan replies, his jaw set with determination. "We'll break this curse and protect our town, our people. Together."

"Here, here!" the crowd echoes, their voices rising in unison as we prepare to embark on our journey into the heart of the forest.

As we gather our supplies and ready ourselves for the challenges ahead, I feel an incredible sense of hope and unity surge through the room. We are more than just a group of individuals; we are a family, bound together by our love for Everwood and our determination to defend it. And though the path before us is fraught with danger, I know that, together, we will overcome anything.

Chapter fifteen

Logan

Istandattheedge of the forest, my heart pounding in my chest like a wild drumbeat. I can feel the weight of this responsibility pressing down on me, and fear gnaws at my insides. But I swallow hard, pushing that fear aside as I focus on the task ahead. "We can do this," I whisper, drawing strength from the determination that burns within.

"Are you ready?" Emily asks, her bright blue eyes searching my face for any signs of doubt.

"Ready as I'll ever be," I reply, forcing a smile to reassure her. In truth, I have never felt more terrified in my life. “Do you have the moonstone?”

“Yes, it’s tucked safely away on the inside of my coat.” She confirms.

“Alright, let’s get going then.” I reply as we group up with Ethan and Callie while the others break off into their small groups.

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