Hazel's POV
The children finally slept peacefully, their small bodies curled together like puppies seeking warmth. Pip's thumb was tucked firmly in her mouth, her other hand clutching Lena's shirt. Milo lay protectively on the outer edge, as if shielding the girls even in sleep.
My heart ached looking at them. How could anyone cage these beautiful children?
I pulled a blanket higher over Pip's shoulders and stepped away, my thoughts racing. With Sera, Jax, and Orion gone to rescue the other captives, the cave felt oddly quiet. Too quiet to ignore the questions burning inside me.
Kael stood by the cave entrance, his imposing figure silhouetted against the dim light. His attention seemed focused on the sealed stone, as if he could see through it to wherever Jax and the others were now.
I took a deep breath and approached him. No time like the present for some honest answers.
"Can we talk?" I asked, my voice soft to avoid waking the children.
