Astrid’s face darkened with anger, her eyes flashing as she took a step toward Winona. But before she could get any closer, Ares moved and blocked her path, his presence sharp and commanding.

“There’s nothing wrong with Vanessa,” Ares stated firmly, his voice calm but laced with warning. “So stop making a fuss over something that didn’t happen.”

Astrid froze, her lips parting, but no words came out.

Ares’s tone grew colder as he continued, “You should be thankful someone ...