*Hazel's POV*
The evening air smelled of smoke and pine, a deceptively peaceful backdrop for what felt like walking into a trap. I sat stiffly on a log beside the campfire, positioned between Kael and the children, my nerves stretched to breaking point.
Archie and Doris—as they'd asked us to call them—bustled around their campfire, setting out plates and plastic utensils. They'd insisted we join them for dinner after our "chat" in their Winnebago had revealed little except cryptic comments about "interesting times" and how lovely it was to meet "such a unique family."
Kael hadn't left my side since I'd emerged from their camper, his body radiating tension despite his outwardly relaxed demeanor. His arm rested behind me on the log, not quite touching but close enough that I could feel his heat.
"Quite a beautiful night," Archie commented, stoking the fire. The flames leapt higher, casting dancing shadows across his weathered face. "Perfect for a cookout with new friends."
