Evander's POV
I found myself smiling unknowingly as I followed behind Claire, watching her hurried steps. But that smile faded the moment I saw her trembling while on a call.
Something was wrong.
Her hand gripped her phone tightly, and I could see her shoulders shaking slightly. Worry clawed at me as I approached her. She looked up, and the sight of her glistening eyes pierced straight through me.
"Claire?" I asked softly, my voice laced with concern.
Her lips quivered as she tried to form words. "E-Eliam…" she finally stammered, her voice breaking. "He has been kidnapped."
Her words hit me like a blow, and for a moment, my mind snapped. A flood of rage and panic surged through me, but I forced myself to stay calm. I couldn't lose control—not now.
Claire's legs buckled, and I quickly moved to catch her, wrapping my arm firmly around her waist before she could fall. She felt so light, so fragile, and the worry etched on her face made my heart clench painfully.
