Leo’s POV
The day started like any other. The sun was shining, the garden was alive with the sound of birds, and Lily was already begging to go outside before we even finished breakfast. Elena smiled as she poured more juice into our glasses, her usual calm and cheerful demeanor putting us at ease.
“Eat first,” she said, her voice light but firm. “Then you can go play.”
Lily huffed but took another bite of her toast, her legs swinging under the table. I didn’t mind waiting. Outside meant freedom, running through the grass, and exploring our favorite spots. It was one of the few times I didn’t have to think about the rules of the house or the men who kept watch over us.
By midmorning, we were out in the garden, racing each other across the lawn. The air was warm, the kind of day that ma
