The Curvy Rogue

Chapter 9

**LORRY SPRINGSTONE / KELLY THOMPSON’S POINT OF VIEW**

“You’re so brave, my little warrior,” Jason murmurs, his voice heavy with emotion.

“Just like your mother,” he adds with emphasis.

My hand trembles slightly at these words, but I steady myself to finish the blood draw. As I place a small bandage on Eden’s arm, I’m touched by the tenderness in Jason’s eyes as he gazes at his son. It’s a side of him I never saw during our marriage, and it warms my heart as much as it tears it apart.

“There, all done,” I say softly to Eden, gently squeezing his hand. “You were very brave,” I add, warmly holding his left hand.

Eden manages a faint smile despite his obvious exhaustion.

“Thank you, Dr. Lorry,” he whispers.

“You’re kind like Papa said, and I like you, especially because your eyes are brown like mine,” he confesses spontaneously.

His words leave me in awe, and I commit fully to healing him.

“I’ll do everything I can to help you feel better,” I promise, my voice tinged with emotion.

As I prepare to take the samples to my makeshift laboratory, Alpha King Jason suddenly grabs my arm.

“Doctor,” he says in a low, urgent voice, “please… tell me honestly. How serious is this?”

I meet his gaze, seeing fear and vulnerability in his eyes, and try to reassure him with a note of hope.

“I won’t lie to you, Your Majesty. The prince’s condition is serious, but I’ve seen similar cases before. With the right treatment, there’s a good chance he’ll recover. I need to analyze these tests immediately to determine the best approach.”

Jason nods, his shoulders relaxing slightly under the weight of relief.

“Thank you, Doctor. I… I don’t know what I’d do if…” He trails off, unable to finish his thought.

I place a reassuring hand on his arm, momentarily forgetting the complex history between us.

“You won’t lose him,” I say firmly.

“I promise to do everything in my power to heal him.”

For a moment, our eyes lock, and I catch a glimmer in Jason’s gaze—recognition, perhaps? But it fades, replaced by gratitude and determination.

“You should stay,” he declares then, to my surprise.

I freeze, caught off guard by these unexpected words from the Alpha King.

“Stay?” I repeat, my voice barely audible.

Jason nods, his eyes fixed on mine.

“Yes, Dr. Springstone. I… I think it would be best if you stayed here at the palace during Eden’s treatment. He seems to have grown attached to you, and I believe your constant presence would aid his recovery.”

My mind races, trying to process this sudden turn. Staying here, so close to my past, to this child who might be my son… it’s both thrilling and terrifying.

“Your Majesty, I…” I begin, unsure of my response.

“Please,” Jason interrupts, his voice softer now.

“I know it’s a lot to ask, but Eden needs you. In fact… we all need you,” he adds.

I glance at the bed where Eden has finally fallen asleep, his small face peaceful for the first time since my arrival. The sight stirs me deeply, and I know, in that moment, I cannot refuse.

“Of course, Your Majesty,” I say softly.

“I’ll stay as long as Eden needs me,” I affirm.

Relief lights up Jason’s face.

“Thank you, Doctor. I’ll have Tina prepare permanent quarters for you immediately.”

As the ruler of the Southern clan turns to give instructions to his housekeeper, I take a moment to grasp the weight of my decision. By agreeing to stay, I’m opening myself to a world of complications and potential heartache. But looking at Eden’s sleeping form, I know I have no choice. Whatever happens, I must do everything to save this child—perhaps my own son.