The night seemed to stretch on endlessly as I sat vigil by Stella's side. The cave was quiet, save for the soft breathing of sleeping wolves and Stella's labored pants. I watched her chest rise and fall, each breath a small victory in her fight for survival.
As the hours wore on, I couldn't help but notice that Stella's condition wasn't improving. If anything, she seemed to be getting worse. Her fur was matted with sweat, and her body trembled with fever. I pressed my nose to her side, alarmed at the heat radiating from her skin.
"Dwayne," I whispered, careful not to wake the other sleeping wolves. "I think her fever's getting worse."
Dwayne, who had been dozing lightly, immediately snapped to attention. He moved closer, examining Stella with worried eyes. "You're right," he said softly
