_Avery's POV_
The Selene Festival was in full swing when I arrived with my parents. The air was alive with music and laughter, and the sweet aroma of roasted meat and fresh pastries floated on the breeze. Lanterns hung from the trees, casting a warm glow across the grounds, and string lights twinkled like stars above the crowd. Everything looked magical, but I felt far from enchanted.
The moment I stepped into the festival, I saw him—Kaden. He was sitting with Anna at one of the decorated tables near the center of the event. Anna was leaning toward him, her silver dress sparkling under the lights, but Kaden didn’t seem to be paying much attention to her. His shoulders were tense, and his head was slightly bowed.
Then, as if he sensed me, his eyes met mine.
I froze for a moment, my brea
