The morning sun filtered through the tall windows of the manor's library, casting long, golden beams across the scattered pages and open books. Liam sat rigid on the edge of a leather armchair, brows knitted in concentration as he flipped through a thick, ancient tome. His usual smirk was gone, replaced with a quiet intensity that made Alex's heart beat a little faster.
Alex watched him for a moment, a soft smile tugging at his lips. "Look at you, all serious and focused."
Liam's eyes lifted, sharp and clear. "I'm done playing around. We can't afford distractions—not when Jude's moving pieces like this."
"Good. Because I'm not letting you distract me today." Alex closed his own book and rose, crossing the room with deliberate steps. He stopped behind Liam, resting his hands lightly on Liam's shoulders.
Liam leaned back into the touch, letting out a slow breath. "I'm serious, Alex. I want to be ready—for whatever comes next."
