_Kaden's POV_
I woke up to the sound of birds chirping outside my window, but the unease from last night clung to me like a second skin. The dream was still vivid in my mind—Avery’s terrified face, the shadows pulling her away, and the helplessness I had felt. My heart ached just thinking about it.
I forced myself out of bed and headed to the bathroom. The hot water from the shower did little to ease the tension in my shoulders. My wolf was restless again, pacing in my mind and growling softly, urging me to act. I ignored it, telling myself I would see Avery soon and confirm that everything was fine.
Once I was dressed, I went downstairs. The smell of pancakes greeted me as I entered the kitchen. My mom stood by the stove, flipping one onto a plate.
“Morning, sweetheart,” she said with
