Chapter 80

• “Ava, you need to understand that this isn’t just about us anymore.” Kade’s voice cut through the quiet of our shared space, but the way his hand rested on my shoulder showed that he was trying to ease the weight of his words on me.
• I turned to face him, feeling the warmth of his touch grounding me, even as his words shook something deep within. “What do you mean?” I asked, trying to keep my voice steady. “Of course, it’s about us. It’s always been about us.”
• His gaze softened, but there was a flicker of something behind his eyes—something I couldn’t place. “Yes, it’s about us. But it’s also about everyone we’ve promised to protect. The pack, the future, the choices we make now will shape everything.”