Ava's POV
Victor’s eyes cut into me, sharp, cold and assessing.
“Yeah, I know,” he said, his voice low.
Before he could step forward, Clara’s voice split the room like a howl in the night, ice and authority wrapped in one. Her gaze zeroed in on Laura, who still clung to Victor’s arm like a pup seeking shelter.
“Then what are you still doing here with her?” Clara demanded.
Laura’s eyes shimmered with tears. She stepped back reluctantly, her scent trembling.
“Grandma,” she said softly, her voice quivering with humility, “Victor and I… we’ve known each other since we were cubs. We used to run in the garden together, play in the moonlight. And I’m Jasper’s aunt. Please don’t hate me.”
She paused, sniffing. Her fur bristled slightly, but she held herself steady. “Everything I’ve done was
