Mordecai's POV

I underestimated Penelope Verdant. And almost lost my nephew as a result.

"You...came..."

"You're my nephew, however silly you act." I reply, reminding myself that Bastian is prone to foolish acts, and it's a miracle Penelope's bullet missed his heart.

He's a foolish boy. He definitely gets his impulsiveness from his father.

Bastian forces a rasping chuckle. It sounds like a faulty kettle. The boy is pale, lips turning blue and eyes drained of colour.

However, he is alive. That is all that matters. Damien will skin me if anything happens to his beloved kids who I'm supposed to protect.

"Who was that woman? The one that shot...