Third Person's POV
Although the movement was subtle, Mortimer caught it. A flicker of pain crossed his eyes.
Dash recognized him instantly. The dog propped its front paws on the edge of the stroller, its tongue hanging out as its tail wagged enthusiastically.
Mortimer forced a faint smile and reached out to stroke its head.
But Seraphina reacted almost on instinct, shoving his hand away.
"What are you trying to do?" she asked, her eyes instantly turning cold. The way she stiffened—as wary as a cat with its guard up—felt like a thousand knives piercing Mortimer's heart, leaving it bleeding endlessly.
He slowly lifted his gaze to hers and let out a bitter laugh. "You think I'd hurt Dash?"
Even though he already knew the answer, he still couldn't stop himself from asking.
Seraphina sa
