DANE'S POV

The door suddenly swung open with a loud creak, making me look up from my desk. I had specifically instructed Beta Ivar that no one was to enter the study and that I wanted to be left undisturbed. My irritation grew as I saw Astrid walk in unannounced.

As I took in her appearance, I noticed she still looked pale and fragile. Her presence here was concerning, considering she was supposed to be recovering in the hospital.

The sight of her in such a state, despite the seriousness of her condition, only fueled my frustration further.

Astrid moved toward me with an anxious expression, her voice trembling as...