14

Maxine pov

As the days passed, I started to notice small changes in Liam’s behavior. He was still stern and demanding, but there was a hint of something else—something softer. He didn’t shout as much, and there were moments when I caught him watching me with a curious expression.

One afternoon, as I was leaving his chambers, he called out to me. "Maxine."

I turned, surprised. "Yes, Alpha?"

He hesitated as if struggling to find the right words. "Thank you," he finally said. "For the herbs."

I nodded, a small smile tugging at my lips. "You’re welcome."

As I walked back to my cell, I felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, things could get better. I held onto that hope, determined to make the best of my situation.

In the following days, my visits to Liam’s chambers became a routine. Each time, I brought him fresh herbs and checked on his condition. He seemed to be getting better, his pain gradually easing. The sternness in his eyes softened slightly each time he saw me, and I could se