Avery's Point of View
By the time the clock struck noon, the stark white walls of the medical wing felt like they were actively closing in on me. Rhett’s threat echoed on a continuous, tormenting loop in my mind: I have full veto power.
Every shred of stability I had fought was entirely dependent on a man who looked at me with nothing but unadulterated hatred. He didn't just want to punish me; he wanted total control over the very air I breathed.
A soft knock on the open door frame shattered my grim thoughts.
I looked up sharply, my muscles instantly tensing, but relief washed over me when I saw Dr. Hayes standing there, a crisp, thick manila folder tucked under his arm.
"Avery? Do you have a moment?" he asked, his expression warm but carrying the distinct, hurried energy of a busy e
