Chapter 173 

Chapter 173 

Killian’s POV 

“I think I should return to the base. You don’t mind, do you?” 

That question could easily be interpreted as: “I’m about to break down or maybe even attack you right now.” Leonidas didn’t wait for me to respond. He just walked away with that expressionless mask he always relied on, especially when he wanted to hide his emotions. 

Several guards had already been stationed on the right wing. The security was extremely tight, meant to prevent anyone with ill intent from interfering with the healing process. Although “healing” might not be the right word, considering the cruelty I chose over someone else’s will. 

“I did what I had to do.” 

I kept repeating that line in my heart. I would grieve for the rest of my life for killing my own child. My crimson eyes glanced down at my hands, imagining fresh red liquid staining them. The scent of iron filled the air, dripping onto the castle’s marble floor. But it wouldn’t change the way anyone looked at me even though I wasn’t the one who took to the field directly. 

This secret remained among the four of us. Elias often wore a furrowed brow and a scrutinizing gaze whenever he shared the same room with me. Such a perceptive boy. So alert and critically minded. 

Father and son, same skin and brain. 

That saying seemed to apply more to the two of us than to his sisters. And maybe that was for the best. I wouldn’t be able to bear being looked at with two more pairs of furious eyes for what I’d done. 

“Your Majesty.” 

One of the representatives stepped into my line of sight. From the uniform, I recognized him as the deputy head of healing. 

“I’ve been instructed to request your presence in accompanying the Queen,” he said. 

My brows furrowed. “What kind of procedure is this? How do I know you’re not trying something vile on my soulmate? Do you take this castle for some cottage on the edge of the woods!?” 

“N–not at all, Your Majesty. This is the best course for both the patient and her family.” 

My teeth clenched. I held on to a single thread of self–control. To hell with procedure why should I go in there? I didn’t want to do it. Because if I did, I might waver in the decision I’ve made. 

“Let me, dad.” 

I turned toward the voice. Elias stood at the doorway, his posture as firm and resolute as a true leader. The traces of youth and baby fat on his cheeks had nearly vanished. I hadn’t expected him to appear. 

“Elias, this isn’t your place. Go back to your sisters.” 

A flicker of anger sparked in his eyes. “I believe I can’t do that. Besides, my presence is more useful here.” 

The healing representative shifted uncomfortably. Elias ignored him completely, stepping further into the private chamber. 

“I’ve heard everything. Would it be a problem if took the King’s place instead? After all, Her Majesty the Queen is my beloved mother.” 

The insolent boy turned his gaze toward me. “Dad, you’ll allow it as well, won’t you?” 

There was challenge in his voice. At another time, I would’ve tested that defiance and relished in how my youngest had grown into such a formidable opponent. But not now. 

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Chapter 173 

“I know everything. 

Shock flooded me. Yet Elias showed no hatred toward me. That alone made me want to cry. His cruel father had been prepared to end the life of his unborn sibling, and yet this boy had made no move to retaliate against such wickedness. 

“If you’re asking whether I’m angry, yes. But I understand.” 

His sharp tone softened slightly. My hands came up to cover my face, and my shoulders slumped in defeat. I collapsed into my own shame and sorrow i shouldn’t have let him see me in such a state. 

“We don’t have much time.” 

I gave him a weak nod. “Yes, son. Take over my duty.” 

“Thank you.” 

I swallowed a strangled sob as I watched Elias follow the envoy. He glanced back briefly and offered a slight bow. Only then could I see the manifestation 

I was. of his true emotions. He was just as hurt as I 

My body slumped into the chair. I had always taken pride in being the most perfect being. The children admired me so deeply. Even the twins set their standards for partners based on me, which terrified me. They always brushed aside the cruelty I inflicted almost daily, hiding it beneath layers of affection. 

Time passed. Fear and anxiety had reached their peak. Ruby would survive. The urge to break down the door surged within me. I wanted to hold her, to pour out a thousand apologies. I would kneel at her feet and offer everything, just for her to cast away her anger toward me. She needed to understand that everything I did was for her. 

A few seconds later, it wasn’t the woman who came to fetch me, but one of the elite guards. A bead of sweat rolled down his temple, his breath ragged, even though the main chamber was relatively close. 

“Has something happened!?” I asked urgently. 

“It’s over, Your Majesty. The young master sent me to fetch you. He said that eyes speak better than words.” 

“WHAT?” 

Understanding the message, I cast aside all doubt and ran, the guard rushing to match my pace. My foot nearly slipped as I turned sharply into the hallway. 

When I arrived, what greeted me was beyond expectation. My mate was sleeping peacefully. Her heartbeat was steady, and the once–fragile bond between us was gradually mending. Meanwhile, in the hands of the youngest Elias was a bundle. He hugged it so protectively as he walked toward me. At that moment, the room felt completely silent. 

“Dad we did it.” 

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