Brax's POV I pulled up to my father's mason. The car's grinding halt felt final, almost as if it heralded some impending doom. The silence between Willow and me was stifling, filling the space with unspoken worries and uncharted fears. I felt bad for the way I had spoken to her; I just couldn’t help it. All I want to do is protect her, and I can't do that if she doesn’t let me in. I wanted to break the silence, to comfort Willow. But just as I opened my mouth, my phone buzzed. Glancing down, I saw Kasey's name flashing on the screen. I hesitated for a moment before answering. “What?” I said, the irritation clear in my voice. "Heeey man, there's a party tonight," Kasey said, his voice infused with excitement. "Nat told me to give you a call to see if you and Willow want to come. It's jus

