Deepen the stories of characters like Molly , Steph , and Natalie . Explore Natalie’s perspective to show the trail of wreckage Hardin left behind before he met Tessa [1, 3]. 3. Key Narrative Themes

Focus on the trauma of his childhood, his volatile relationship with his mother, and the resentment he feels toward his father, Vance [2, 3].

Even in a prequel, the narrative should feel like it’s gravitating toward the moment he sees Tessa in his room for the first time [1]. 4. Structure: The "Aftermath"