Arden's / Aria's POV
The morning air was cold and still. It felt like the whole world was holding its breath. I stood beside Kai in the main courtyard. The other cadets were there too. Everyone was quiet. No one joked or shoved.
Today was the last test. Resolve.
I kept my back straight. I looked ahead. But inside, my heart was beating too fast. My hands were cold. Malrick was here. I could feel it.
I did not see him yet. But I knew he was watching. Somewhere.
Kai stood close to me. His arm brushed against mine. He did not look at me. He stared straight ahead. His face was like stone. But I could feel his worry through our bond. It was a warm, steady hum beneath my own fear. He was a wall beside me. My wall.
Head Alpha Torvin walked to the front. His face was serious. His eyes move
