The dilemma gnawed at Matthew's mind like a persistent storm. The children needed stability and safety, but what would happen if the authorities got involved? He imagined cold, sterile offices and disinterested social workers splitting them apart-Elyra and Dain's unbreakable bond severed by bureaucracy.

As he sat on the cabin's porch, the evening light casting long shadows across the trees, Matthew thought of the oddities he'd seen in the children-their grace, their instincts, the way they moved as if guided by some unseen force. These weren't ordinary kids. Elyra stepped out onto the porch, her golden eyes catching the last rays of sunlight. "What's wrong?" she asked softly.noveldrama

Matthew forced a small smile. "Just thinking, kiddo."

She tilted her head, watching him with an intensity that felt far older than her years. It was unsettling yet comforting at the same time, as if she could sense his turmoil and wanted to ease it.

That night, as he watched the children sleep, Matthew made his decision.

He couldn't risk it.

He couldn't expose Elyra and Dain to a world that might not understand them—a world that might fear them. Until he had answers, he would keep them here, safe in the mountains, away from prying eyes.

"I'll figure this out," he whispered, as if promising the silent cabin itself.

The decision settled over him like a weight. He wasn't just a guardian now-he was their protector, their shield against whatever dangers their past might bring.