Aiden's POV
It had been one day since Alina came back, and a strange mix of relief and satisfaction settled in my chest every time I thought about it. She was here, under my roof again. Mine to protect. But beneath that warmth, a gnawing unease twisted in my gut, refusing to let me breathe easy. Lucian was still out there, circling like a shadow. I knew he wanted her back. He would rip this pack apart if that's what it took. I couldn't let my guard down. Not even for a second.
I stood in front of the mirror, fingers tugging at my tie, pulling the knot tighter than necessary. The bathroom door clicked open and Emily stepped out, her presence heavy in the room.
"Are you okay?" I asked, trying to bridge the silence.
She said nothing.
"Emily, please don't shut me out like this," I added softly, turning to face her.
