"Are you really going to let him win?" Ethan's voice carried across the room, frustration and desperation mingling in his tone.
Avery hesitated by the door, her hand gripping the handle. She didn't turn to look at him. "This isn't about Marcus or Liam," she said softly. "This is about what's best for everyone."
"Running away is what's best?" Ethan stepped closer, his footsteps heavy on the wooden floor. "Avery, don't do this. We can figure it out. Together."
She turned, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Don't make this harder, Ethan. You know I'm a liability. The elders, Marcus, Liam—they're all using me against you."
"They're using fear," he countered. "But we don't have to give in. You're stronger than this, Avery."
"I'm strong enough to know when I'm putting others in danger," she said, her voice cracking. "I can't stay. Not when I'm the reason for all of this."
