MADELINE
The Sentinel that would be driving us opened the car door for me. I slid into the backseat next to Elara, who was already settled in and adjusting her dress. Through the windshield, I could see Cian lifting Fia into his arms. She looked small against him. Fragile in a way that made my stomach twist.
He carried her to the other car. The one in front of ours. His movements were careful. Protective. Like she might shatter if he held her wrong.
I looked away. Hating how jealous and competitive it made me.
Aldric appeared at the driver's side window. He tapped on it twice. The sentinel rolled it down.
"I'll drive," Aldric said.
The sentinel's brow furrowed. "Sir, that's not necessary. I can—"
"I need to." Aldric's tone left no room for argument. "It helps me think. Clear my head after these events."
