Chapter 72. Deceit

That same day, when Theo finally returned to Mina’s chamber after a long, exhausting day running the affairs of the pack, Lambert was the first to reach him. The young boy squealed in excitement and threw his small arms around Theo’s leg. Theo chuckled softly and lifted him briefly before setting him down.

But the moment he turned toward Mina, his smile faded.

She stood a few steps away, her hands folded tightly in front of her, her shoulders weighed down by something heavy. Her eyes, usually warm whenever she saw him, were clouded with sadness.

Theo’s brows drew together.

“Mina… what happened?”

She didn’t answer immediately. Instead, she sighed deeply and called for Lambert’s nurse.

“Please take him outside to play for a while.”

Lambert obeyed happily, leaving the room with the nurse, and the door closed quietly behind them.

Mina approached Theo, gently guiding him toward the cushioned chair near the window. Theo allowed himself to be