Kerris POV

I don't feel right.

The strangeness began after I waved goodbye to Zach and his Beta. My stomach feels tied in knots. Like I'm still terrified. Even though the moment has passed and Zach didn't ask any question about my birthmark. He did not recognize me. That would be impossible.

I glance back anxiously to see if I'm being followed. The street is almost empty as it's a holiday.

I'm climbing up the porch steps when a wrenching pain suddenly cuts through me, making me double over. The feeling is like getting flogged with an axe. I grab hold of the railing for support as my spine crackles...