Don't Call the Wolf

by Aleksandra Ross

“These humans commit terrible evils and they beg forgiveness. They have such a capacity to change, Baba

Jaga . . . and I think that is their real magic. They hold such darkness, these humans, but they still choose the light. Of all the things I love about them, I love this best.”

“Ren,” he said. “I’ve only ever loved nine people.” He shifted against her leg, sat up. They were even closer, and Ren was finding it hard to breathe. Then he added: “You’re the tenth.” “I am not people,” she whispered. He laughed. “True,” he said. “You’re better than we are.” Her eyes met his. She felt them changing, felt

“I am so many things,” said Ren. “I am mostly terrible things, honestly. But of one thing I am sure: I am not just a girl.”