I pocketed my phone and stepped toward Thalia and Raphael. I softened my posture slightly, looking down at the terrified boy hiding against Thalia's waist.
"Raphael," I said quietly, trying to make my voice sound gentle. "Go with George and my guards. I will make sure your mother doesn't come anywhere near you again. I will protect you."
Thalia looked down at the boy, patting his hair softly. "Go on, Raphael. Go with Adrian. He'll keep you safe."
But the moment I reached out my hand toward him, Raphael’s eyes flared with panic.
"NO!" the little boy screamed, tears finally bursting out of his eyes as he wrapped both of his arms around Thalia's waist, clinging to her with all his small strength. "No! I don't want to go with him! I don't want to go with any of them!"
I paused, my hand ha
