Lily's Point of view

My strength had come from desperation, even though I was not ready for that. I flung myself against the man holding Aiden and kicked him hard in the shin. He tripped, cursing, and I snatched the moment to pull Aiden behind me.

"Mommy, don't let them take me!" Aiden wailed, clinging to my leg.

"I won't, baby," I said, positioning myself between him and the men.

But it was one against five, and I knew the chances weren't in my favor.

Two of the men seized me, their grips like steel, and hauled me back.

"No!" I screamed as I fought them. "Don’t take him!"

They...