Kael’s POV
The halls had never felt more suffocating.
Every corner of the mansion whispered her name.
The study still breathed her scent, not just faint, but maddening, like wild honey tangled with pine. The north corridor echoed with memories of her laughter.
My wolf stirred every time I passed those places, pressing at the edge of my control.
“Find her. Claim her.” He pushed for control.
I didn’t go looking for her. Not this time.
I avoided her.
At first, it was to keep her safe. But somewhere along the way, it became habit. A wall I built and then lock the door from inside.
Zack hated it. He paced restlessly, snarling when I ignored the pull.
I buried myself in meetings, in reports, in the endless demands of the council. Anything to stay ahead of the pull that drew me to
