The last day of school arrived like the closing page of a long, beautiful chapter.
Claire stood in the crowded auditorium of Greenwood High, heart swelling with pride as she watched Xander walk across the stage in his cap and gown. The entire senior class was graduating today, but Xander stood out — not just because of his height or the way the lights seemed to follow him, but because he was the valedictorian. The top of his class. The future Alpha who had somehow balanced pack duties, leadership, and academics without ever losing his quiet strength.
When his name was called, the applause was thunderous. Claire clapped until her hands hurt, tears blurring her vision. Beside her, Alissa whooped loudly, while the rest of the Avila family cheered from their reserved seats. Her own parents s
