CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY-SEVEN - BUILDING CONFIDENCE

By the end of the session, Anna had managed to land a few hits on Erik without losing control. More importantly, she felt a new sense of confidence in her ability to manage her werewolf nature. As they wrapped up the training, Erik pulled Anna into a hug. "I'm proud of you," he murmured into her hair. "You showed real strength today – not just physical strength, but emotional strength." Anna hugged him back tightly, feeling a surge of affection for this man who had become her rock in this new, chaotic world. "Thank you for not giving up on me," she said softly. Erik pulled back slightly, cupping her face in his hands. "Never," he said firmly. "We're in this together, remember?" As they stood there, the air between them charged with unspoken emotions, Anna realized how far she had come. From a human thrust unexpectedly into the world of werewolves, to someone who was learning to embrace her new nature. And through it all, Erik had been by her side, patient and unwavering in his supp