My heart thundered as I knelt down, gently cupping my son's cheeks.
"Boys, listen to me," I said. "You're going to run through the forest, stay together, and don't stop until you're far away. Do you hear me?"
Daemond clung to my shaking hand, his wide eyes glistening with tears. "Mama, we don't want to leave you!"
"You have to," I said firmly, glancing at Ksaver and Marcus, who nodded hesitantly. "Be brave. Look out for each other, no matter what. Now go!"
"But…"
I pushed them gently, and they hesitated for a heartbeat before turning and sprinting toward the tree line.
Daemond led the way, his hand gripping Marcus's tightly, while Ksaver brought up the rear, his small legs pumping furiously. They glanced at me one last time before they were swallowed by shadows.
"Don't let them escape!" the rugged men shouted, and a few broke off to run after them.
But I moved before they could get far, stepping into their path.
