Chapter 13

Maxine's POV

Over the next few days, I continued to visit Liam’s chambers, bringing him more herbal remedies and checking on his condition. Each time, he seemed a little less hostile, though he never fully softened. I could see the confusion in his eyes as if he couldn’t understand why I was helping him.

One evening, as I was preparing another batch of herbs, Elena joined me in the small kitchen. Now, I was freed to go around but not too far.

"How is he?" she asked.

"Better," I replied. "The herbs are helping, but he’s still in pain."

Elena sighed. "I hope he realizes how much you’re doing for him."

I shrugged. "I’m just doing what I can. I don’t expect anything in return."

She smiled. "That’s what makes you special, Maxine. You care, even when it’s not easy."

As the days passed, I started to notice small changes in Liam’s behavior. He was still stern and demanding, but there was a hint of something else—something soft