Soraya's POV
The corridor leading to Princess Seraphine's chamber was more quiet now than usual.
My heart beat unevenly as I walked, my thoughts still heavy with everything I had been trying so desperately to avoid—Prince Alderon, the coming guests, and the truth that pressed against my chest like a restless storm. I only hoped this summons had something to do with Liam… and not the arrival I wasn't ready to face.
I knocked softly.
"Come in, Maria," Seraphine's warm voice answered.
I pushed the door open—
And froze.
Liam stood near the center of the room, looking nothing like the little boy I had left earlier in simple play clothes.
He was dressed in a tiny royal suit of deep navy blue, tiny silver buttons lining the front. His curls were neatly brushed, his little shoes polished until they gleamed. He looked… like a miniature prince.
For a moment, I could only stare.
"Liam?" I whispered.
