Freddy’s POV

The sound of the shower running filled the bathroom as I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the cufflinks on my crisp white dress shirt. Tonight was a night I never thought I’d see. Not because I doubted Aliana’s ability to pull it off—but because, for the longest time, I never imagined myself celebrating anything other than another battle won.

But this wasn’t about war. It wasn’t about winning or losing.

This was about change.

I ran a hand through my hair, letting out a slow breath as I stared at my reflection. My gray eyes, the same ones I saw every time I looked at Sandy,...