_Kaden's POV_
The crowd began to disperse, but my gaze remained fixed on Liam, who stood smugly on the stage, basking in his victory. My chest tightened with anger, my wolf growling in my mind, restless and furious. I had lost everything I had worked my entire life for, but none of it mattered right now. All I could think about was Avery.
The doors to the main hall opened again, and my heart skipped a beat when I saw her. Avery walked in, flanked by two of Liam’s rogue warriors. She looked so pale. Her steps were unsteady as if she could barely hold herself upright. My wolf let out a low whimper, urging me to go to her. Without a second thought, I rushed toward her.
“Avery,” I said, my voice trembling with emotion as I reached her. “Are you okay?”
She looked up at me, her tired eyes me
