Liam’s POV
“Another false trail,” Leo said quietly, tossing the report onto my desk.
I didn’t look up. “Burn it.”
He hesitated. “There’s still a chance—”
“I said burn it.”
The silence between us stretched. Finally, he muttered, “You’re calmer these days.”
“Am I?”
“Calm, but distant. You barely speak anymore.”
I poured another glass of water. “Maybe silence is all I have left.”
He watched me carefully. “You haven’t touched a woman in three years, Liam.”
I glanced at him. “Is that concern or gossip?”
“Both.”
I gave a humorless laugh. “Celibacy suits me. Keeps the ghosts quiet.”
“You mean her quiet.”
I didn’t deny it.
---
We rode through the forest that evening, the air sharp with pine and rain. My men trailed behind in uneasy silence.
“Your Majesty,” Leo called, “we’re cross
