Zavian’s POV

I carried Christian from Velvet’s laps and I held him in my arms and felt his small hands press against my shirt. He laughed softly, and it eased a little of the weight on my chest. I told him to go play, and he ran off without looking back.

When he left, my eyes went to Velvet. She stood there with a nervous look that made her seem even smaller. I walked toward her and reached for her hand.

Her fingers were cold when I touched them. I pulled her closer so I could study her face. She didn’t say anything, but I could tell she was scared....