What's it like to wake as a canid?
Embedded in my latest novel, Rivers of Red , is the conclusion to the backstory of Clifford and Claire. The chapter where she first turns him into a werewolf was one of the most fun to write and, as a dog lover, the following scene, where Cliff first wakes to his new self, was an absolute blast. For all lovers of the canids, this post is for you... Thump. We’re awake. Thump-thump. Panic. Where are we? What’s that noise? Thump-thump, thump-thump. A gasping breath. Blankets. A floor, carpeted. It’s our heart beating. Thump-thump, Thump-Thump, THUMP-THUMP. Why is it so loud? Not loud. Strong. Feel it? We are strong. Wait a minute. “We?” Yes, “we.” It is “our” heart, now, strong enough for two. Breathe, stretch our limbs, and see. Clifford responded to the inner voice. Inhaling deeply, he extended his arms and legs experimentally. The stretch felt good, like his muscles had awakened from a deep sleep. But, when his legs and arms reached their fully extended length,...