The cellar was a forgotten relic of the mansion, its damp walls lined with crates and cobwebs, discovered by Mia during a late-night exploration. It was the perfect place to train in secret, away from Alpha Maveric’s spies, Hart’s jealousy, and Olivia’s cryptic gaze. Serena’s heart pounded with a mix of fear and determination, her fever making her skin slick with sweat, but the pendant’s glow steadied her. She’d slipped away after dinner, telling Gary and Jack she needed rest, a lie that gnawed at her conscience. Their loyalty, their willingness to bleed for her, was a love she cherished but feared she’d betray if her fire spiraled. The doubt Olivia had planted—her power could destroy the pack—clawed at her, but her mother’s words urged her to trust her strength, to find the power within.
