Wendy POV

Aidan's words sent a tremor of hope rippling through me.

My gaze fixed nervously on the car door, but before I could gather my thoughts, the sharp call of Elena's voice shattered the silence outside.

"Aidan! Today is our engagement party! Are you really just going to abandon me there all alone?" Her tone, laced with desperation, edged into a trembling plea that carried the distinct fragility of unshed tears.

"I've already ...