Katelyn’s POV

The moment Ethan stepped forward and offered himself as the hostage, my world tilted.

I had begged him not to, pleaded until my throat hurt, but his mind was set. He told me to trust him, and then Milo’s men led him away.

The room felt empty as soon as the door closed behind them. My hands trembled. My body was buzzing, yet I felt hollow inside, like someone had scooped out the center of me. Fallon grabbed my arm, steadying me.

“He’ll be fine,” she said firmly. “Milo ...