Bernie trotted ahead, his gait brisk and purposeful. Every so often, he paused to sniff at the ground or paw at the soft earth, his instincts guiding him. Jacob let his thoughts drift, his footsteps in rhythm with the crunch of leaves underfoot. Everything felt as it should—peaceful, ordinary, undisturbed.
But then Bernie froze. A low growl rumbled from his chest, pulling Jacob sharply from his reverie. The dog’s ears were pricked, his eyes locked on the darkened edge of the forest. Jacob followed Bernie’s gaze, squinting into the shadows. He saw nothing—just the faint outlines of trees swaying in the breeze.