He ascended the stairs with deliberate steps, brushing past his concerned friends without acknowledgment. His mind was
singularly focused on reaching the bedroom his father had designated as their sanctuary for the night. Returning to their own house was impossible for now—not until they could be certain that no visible bruises marred Alex's skin. His father was adamant about shielding the children from unnecessary worry.
As Nikolai approached the bedroom, he found Liam standing sentinel outside the door, his posture rigid with tension. One hand hovered instinctively near his waist, where Nikolai knew his firearm was holstered—ever the protector, even in moments of relative safety.
"I've cleared the room thoroughly," Liam announced, his voice carrying the professional tone of someone w
