Seraphina's POV
The tension in the air was thick enough to cut with a knife as Kael and I squared off. His power pushed against mine like storm clouds colliding before a hurricane. Behind me, Hazel had stopped laughing, her breathing shallow and quick.
"I need to speak with my mate." Kael's voice was controlled, but rage simmered beneath every syllable. "Alone."
"Not happening," I replied cheerfully, examining my nails as if bored. "She's in no condition for your particular brand of intense confrontation."
His eyes narrowed. "That isn't your decision to make."
"Actually, it is." I stepped sideways, maintaining my position between them. "As the only one here with medical knowledge of her condition."
Hazel cleared her throat. "I'm right here, you know. Maybe ask what I want?"
I turned to look at her, noting the unhealthy flush spreading across her cheeks. Her eyes were too bright, her skin clammy. The energy in the room was already affecting her.
