Ava’s POV

Logan’s voice broke the heavy silence. “Ava, wait… we need to talk.”

My hands trembled slightly, and I took a small step back, my heart racing in a way that wasn’t excitement or happiness. It was fear,confusion,pain I hadn’t fully allowed myself to feel until now.

“No,” I whispered, shaking my head. “There’s nothing to say.”

He frowned, his usual calm and commanding presence flickering with vulnerability I hadn’t expected. “I didn’t mean ...