DAMIEN’S POV

We were still in the car, parked outside the campus gates. The engine was off, but the morning sun was already pouring through the windows, lighting up Rose’s face as she stared at her reflection in the visor mirror.

She smoothed her hair for the tenth time, fingers trembling just a little.

“I can’t believe this is really happening,” she whispered, eyes wide and shining. “It’s like a dream come true.”

Her first day of college. Human college.

My mate was stepping into a world that wasn't mine to control.

My chest tightened—pride, love, and a cold knot of worry all tangled together.

I chuckled, trying to keep...