As Avery sat amongst her four mates, Shane, Sean, Cruz, and Romeo, as they gathered in their usual spot—a cozy living room bathed in warm, dim light. They were all comfortable with each other as if they had been friends for years, their bond stronger than steel, forged through shared experiences and unwavering loyalty. Tonight, however, there was something different in the air, a palpable shift that Avery couldn't quite put her finger on.

As they talked and laughed, Avery couldn't shake ...