Chapter 33. Twisted Dynamics

My heart sank as I pondered how to explain this to Axel. What on earth could I say to cover up this stab wound?

“Ashlyn!”

I took a deep breath, trying to collect my thoughts. "Hold your horses, Axel, and yes, this is indeed a stab injury."

His eyes widened in shock. "How did this happen?"

Deciding it was best to be honest, at least to some extent, I began to explain. "It was in Country X. Father had Amber and Kyle to keep himself entertained. I had to rescue them before anything catastrophic occurred."

He leaned in, intrigued. "By 'catastrophic,' do you mean...?"

"Before he killed them or...well, had them mutilated. Father has a variety of sick hobbies, and his favorite pastime is inflicting pain on his own children."

"Please, go on," Axel urged, a mix of concern and curiosity evident in his voice.

I winced in pain as Axel continued to clean my wound, causing him to ease up and show a tinge of gentleness. "After retrieving Amber and Ky