Chapter 30: Shadows of Concern

Mariana's heart raced as she huddled close to Alvarez, her breaths shallow and ragged, matching his own labored rhythm. The scent of blood and battle hung heavy in the air, mingling with the faint whispers of fear that danced on the wind. "Alvarez, are you holding up okay?" she whispered, her voice barely audible over the distant sounds of chaos. Concern etched deep lines into her brow as she inspected his wounded form, her fingers trembling as they grazed over his fur. Alvarez managed a weak nod, his gaze flickering with gratitude despite the pain etched into every line of his expression. "I'll manage, Madam," he replied hoarsely, his voice a mere whisper against the backdrop of the battlefield. "But you need to focus on your own safety." Despite his reassurances, Mariana's concern only deepened, a gnawing fear clawing at the edges of her resolve. She could sense the toll the relentless onslaught had taken on Alvarez, his injuries evident even in his wolf form. "I can't help but wo