The words hung between them, fragile and profound.
Elaine's breath caught. She searched his face, looking for deception, for manipulation. But all she saw was raw honesty.
"Then prove it," she said softly. "If you think he was wrong, prove it. Give me one month."
Kael's brow furrowed. "What?"
"Delay the hunt. One month." Her hand was still pressed against his chest, feeling his heart race beneath her palm. "Give me one month to show you there's another way. To find an alternative to murdering children."
"Elaine..."
"Please." She shifted closer, her free hand sliding up to his neck. "You said you're starting to think your father was wrong about love. So trust that instinct. Trust me."
His jaw clenched. "And if we don't find another way? If after a month, there's no alternative?"
"Th
