“Fine.” The word was uttered through clenched teeth. “But I will come back.” “Of course you will. You’ve never been able to stay away from her for long. She’s the only one you’ve ever truly cared about, isn’t she?” A muscle in his scarred cheek twitched. “Wrong, Mother. I cared about you. And I could again, if you let me.” His words had succeeded in bringing a glistening to the queen’s eyes, but her only reply was a shallow nod. He shifted his gaze to Lucia. “I’ll return soon. I promise. Please . . . don’t fall asleep again.”
