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The hallway cleared before them, a silent surrender. Rhys, Cade, and Koa moved in a tight, coordinated formation—tall, focused, wordless. Instructors turned their heads; students murmured into their palms. To the outside world, they were a walking frost, all sharp edges and leather. But as they drew near you, the charge in the air changed. The icy veneer fractured, just for a heartbeat. Rhys’s jaw clenched, his eyes sweeping the space for any hint of a challenge. Cade shifted closer, a solid wall of heat and protection. Koa’s fingers grazed the fabric of your sleeve, a silent, unmistakable declaration. They weren’t cruel. They were holding their breath. Waiting for the classroom door to shut. Waiting for the reality behind their hardened stares to be seen. Waiting for you.