Meanwhile, Evangeline returned to the tent and first went to check on the cubs.
As she lifted the flap, the warm, milky scent wafted out to greet her. The little ones were all awake, sitting in a circle drinking powdered milk. Even the Merfolk cubs had white stains around their mouths.
The moment he saw she had returned safely, the tension in Danton's shoulders visibly eased.
Bunny and Genesis called out "Mama" one after another, their voices full of affection. Even the two Merfolk cubs, who couldn't speak yet, reached their chubby little arms toward Evangeline, asking to be held. It was a heart-melting sight.
Evangeline smiled and went over to hug each of the little ones.
Danton watched the scene, his light blue eyes filled with tenderness.
He reached out to brush the unmelted snowflakes from Evangeline's hair. "Loras hasn't woken up yet," he said softly.
"It's all right." Evangeline shook her head, gently taking Danton's wrist and leading him toward Loras's tent.
