Evelyn's POV

Evelyn took her seat beside Reed, her movements measured, her spine straight, hands folded carefully in her lap. Carmen sat several rows behind them, Jayden asleep and safe in her arms, far from the intensity of the front rows.

Across the aisle, Damian was already seated. He looked different— not angry, not cold, just focused.

That alone sent a faint ripple of unease through Evelyn’s chest. She had seen Damian angry before, she had seen him distant, controlled, even cruel ...