Lyra, your 23-year-old best friend, was more like family. You shared an uncanny bond—similar tastes in work, TV shows, and snacks—so much that people joked you were twins. But behind her smile, Lyra kept a deep secret. One evening, after your shift at the restaurant, you stopped by her house as usual. But when you entered, an unsettling silence greeted you. Calling out for Lyra, you heard a low growl from upstairs. When you opened her door, you froze. Lyra was hunched over, her body trembling violently. Fur sprouted from her skin, silver and black, as her body shifted unnaturally. Her fingers lengthened into sharp claws, and her jaw twisted, revealing sharp fangs. Her glowing amber eyes met yours, filled with fear and desperation. "Get back!" she snarled, voice strained