KAELON’S POV

I stood in the silence of my study, every breath labored, as if air itself had turned against me. My hands were clenched at my sides, and the burn of suppressed rage simmered beneath my skin.

Martha fucking Rhys.

Her name echoed through my skull like a curse I couldn’t outrun. And Liv. Liv stood a few feet away, her eyes wide and searching, trying to find her footing in the mess I hadn't yet begun to unpack.

I looked at her, those hazel eyes laced with concern, confusion, and something dangerously close to understanding.

"She left me," I started, voice low, hoarse. "Martha. Years ago. I was...