Chapter 62

Chapter 62: Divide and conquer

"Mother!" Liam cried, reaching out for her. Lucian carefully set him down, and the boy who have missed his mother dearly immediately ran into Isabel's arms, clinging to her tightly.

Isabel hugged him as her tears began streaming down her face. "Liam, my little baby," she whispered, holding him close.

Lucian watched the reunion with an unfamiliar tightness in his chest. He had expected relief, perhaps even satisfaction, but instead, he felt an overwhelming sense of vulnerability.

"Liam, would you like something to eat or drink?" Lucian asked, attempting to coo the child that alarmed Isabel somehow.

The boy looked up at his mother, then back at Lucian. "Your Majesty, I only want to stay with my mother," he said softly and politely.

Lucian nodded, understanding the boy's need for his mother. "Very well," he said. "You can stay here with her." He glanced at Isabel. "If there's anything you need, just let the guards know."

Isabel's expression hardened. "You'