The days that followed Scarlett’s harrowing encounter in the woods were a blur of activity and determination. After her brief breakdown in Ethan’s dorm, she decided to channel her emotions into her training, using every ounce of her energy to reclaim the sense of control she had momentarily lost.
Ethan, true to his word, stayed close, training her in ways far beyond what the standard academy curriculum offered. He was relentless, pushing her to her limits but never crossing the line of her comfort.
The routine at Wellington Military Academy intensified as the semester climaxed. With Christmas only two weeks away, instructors were determined to squeeze in as much as possible before the cadets were sent off on a two-week holiday. Morning drills began earlier, combat lessons ran longer, an
