The Curvy Rogue

Chapter 11

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

Throughout the night, I stay vigilant, watching Eden’s every breath, terrified he might suddenly stop breathing. My anger toward Jason and this situation slowly fades, replaced by an overwhelming protective instinct. This child—my child—has already suffered too much. I won’t let him endure another moment of pain or neglect.

As dawn breaks, I’ve made my decision. I can’t leave Eden here, not after seeing evidence of his mistreatment with my own eyes. No matter the consequences, I must get him away from this place—far from Jason and his circle.

The first rays of sunlight filter through the curtains, and Eden stirs, slowly opening his eyes. His gaze meets mine, and a small smile lights up his lips.

“Good morning, Dr. Lorry,” he says softly, with a hint of surprise.

“Where are my papa and Nanny Tina? Did you stay with me all night?” the young heir asks.

I nod simply, forcing a smile despite the turmoil in my heart, answering only his second question and deliberately avoiding the first.

“I slept here, little one,” I say, masking my anxiety.

“How are you feeling this morning?” I ask in return.

Eden thinks for a moment before responding.

“My tummy doesn’t hurt as much as yesterday, but I’m still tired,” he reveals.

“That’s good news that the pain is less now,” I exclaim with enthusiasm, gently brushing back his hair.

“We’ll keep working to make you feel better, okay?” I add before starting my morning examination.

As I begin the medical assessment, checking his vital signs and noting any changes, I can’t help but admire Eden’s resilience. Despite all he’s been through, a spark of life persists in him. This reality gives my weary heart a bit of courage.

Suddenly, a knock at the door interrupts, and without waiting for my permission—it’s clearly not my room—someone enters with a steaming tray of food. It’s Tina, the head housekeeper, carrying breakfast.

“Good morning, Dr. Springstone, young prince. I’ve brought a light breakfast for both of you,” she says cheerfully.

“How’s our little Eddy doing this morning?” she asks next, calling the Alpha heir Eden by the nickname she seems to have coined.

I step back from the bed, letting her place the tray on the bedside table.

“His pain seems to have lessened, but he’s still very tired,” I report, keeping my voice neutral despite the suspicions now coloring every interaction.

Tina nods, her face etched with concern as she looks at Eden.

“Poor little lamb. But with your care, Doctor, I’m sure he’ll be back on his feet soon,” she says.

I force a smile, though my mind races.

“Does Tina know about Eden’s scars? Is she complicit in what’s happening here?” I wonder silently, watching her fuss over Eden.

Tina’s sharp gaze meets mine with a knowing smile, and my heart skips a beat. She questions me casually, but I sense an undercurrent of suspicion in her voice.

“Dr. Springstone, is everything alright?” she asks innocently.

My mind scrambles as I search for a convincing response. I can’t let her guess my true intentions.

“Yes, of course. I just didn’t sleep much last night,” I reply, hoping to dispel her doubts.

Tina’s smile falters for a moment before she quickly recovers, offering to watch over the young prince so I can freshen up and eat breakfast. My instincts scream not to leave Eden alone, but I know I must keep up appearances.

“Thank you, Tina. That’s very kind of you,” I say through gritted teeth, forcing a grateful smile.

Time will reveal my next move. For now, I can only feign outward calm while searching for a way out.