KAYLA POINT OF VIEW

“Dad,” I called, bowing lowly.

He ignored me, walking up to my mother, pulling her into a life-threatening hug.

My father’s arms wrapped around my mother so tightly that I thought he might crush her ribs. “You took your time,” he growled, his voice rough. “I was beginning to think you wouldn’t show up, though I know you wouldn’t dare.”

My mother forced a small laugh, though I could see her body stiffen in his hold. “The journey was long, Xavier,” ...