Jessica's POV

Lily's small body trembled in my arms as she sobbed, the perfect picture of innocence. Her tears streaked my blouse while Lucien's patience frayed in front of us. His jaw ticked, hands flexing at his sides like he was seconds away from snapping.

"Lily," he said sharply. "Enough."

I drew her closer before he could say more, my voice breaking just enough. "She's just a child, Lucien."

He looked ready to argue, then stopped when Lily's wail grew louder.

"Daddy, why don't you love ...