Aeliana and Elijah were holding the girls in their arms, searching for Hayley frantically throughout the Bayou. They came across another animal trap that was covered in blood, making Aeliana hide Audrey's face instantly.
"Where is she? Where the hell is Hayley?"
The couple looked over at Jackson, who's leg was bleeding severely. Aeliana gasped and tried to bite into her wrist.
"Jack, you're hurt. Take my blood."
"I'm good. We need to find Hayley."
Elijah sighed and approached Jackson slowly. "There's still no sign of her. I've seen the bodies."
"Hunters set up traps all over the Bayou. Mowed us down with gunfire. Any wolf that wasn't taken out scattered. Elijah, how many bodies?"
The couple looked away, not knowing how to answer with words.
"A trap wouldn't hold Hayley after she turned back. Nothing would stop her from seeing that little girl. Something's wrong."
Elijah started to pack things up, confusing Jackson. "Where are you going?"
"To take my daughter and niece home. Then, I'll continue the search. You stay here, you tend to your dead."
"No! No. I got five hours 'til I'm a wolf again. Elijah, she's my wife."
Aeliana placed her hands on his shoulders after getting the girls settled in the stroller. "We will find her."
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COURT OF MARSEILLES, 1002 AD
Aeliana was walking through the palace, lost once again trying to find her and Elijah's sleeping quarters.
"Where is this damn room?"
"Ladies like yourself shouldn't use such language."
The voice behind her automatically sent a chill down her spine. It was the voice of someone she was trying to avoid being alone with, knowing his infatuation with her.
"Lord Tristan, my apologizes. I thought I was alone."
"I was about to go for a walk outside. Care to join me?"
"I don't think it would be very appropriate for a married woman to stroll with a man who isn't her husband so late at night."
"No worries, I'll keep quiet. It'll be our little secret." He winked at her and held out an arm. When he noticed her hesitation, he flashed a charming smile. "I promise, I will bring you right back to your sleeping quarters. Just a few minutes, please?"
"I guess it wouldn't be too harmful." Aeliana took his arm and allowed him to lead her to the destination.
"Let me take you to my favorite spot. It has the most beautiful view of the stars."
