But in reality, he'd been traveling through distant territories with his little Omega Liaison.
Fine feasts. Imported delicacies from across the realm.
Why would he ever lower himself to share my hardships?
Even that prison visit—he'd paid a hundred and twenty tribute coins to stage the entire scene.
These past three years, I'd been nothing but a fool. Their plaything, spun in circles by their lies.
When Alaric noticed my tears, panic flashed across his face. He stepped closer, reaching up to wipe them away with his thumb.
"Lyra, why are you crying? Did someone hurt you?"
I looked into his eyes.
"If someone hurt me, what would you do?"
"Would you still protect me like you swore before—no matter what, even if it cost you your life?"
Alaric reached for a cloth, his movements clumsy as he wiped my tears.
He didn't even hesitate. Just nodded, firm and certain.
"Anything, Lyra. Whatever you ask, I'll do it."
I held his gaze—those eyes so full of sincerity.
"Really?"
"Then kill Lily Ashgrove."
His head snapped up. He stared at me, stunned.
"What did you say?"
A flicker of panic crossed his face. "Did something happen? Did you misunderstand something?"
He was terrified I'd figured it out.