Skyler's POV
The guard collapsed onto the floor, and at Liam's curt command to run, he scrambled away without a second thought. Liam sank back into his chair, his head dropping against the backrest with a weary sigh that didn't escape my notice. His hand raked through his thick hair, and his teeth worried his lower lip.
He looked tired. Frustrated. And likely furious with the lack of progress. Maddening, really, how much time was passing without him finding her. Did he even have the slightest idea how? And if he did, why wasn't he doing more?
No, if I wanted a way out, I would have to find it myself. This man was proving utterly useless. For all his power, Liam was failing at the simple task of locating one fragile woman. Even if she had help, surely he could outmaneuver them. He simply wasn't using his resources as he should.
His voice snapped me from my thoughts.
"If you came to comfort me, save it. I don't need you. I'd rather have Hazel here in your place," he spat.
At least he was being honest. My lips twitched, but instead of showing anger, I forced a sweet smile.
"That would serve us both well, Your Majesty. Believe me, I'd do the same. I long to drag her here by her hair. But until then, we only have each other to rely on," I said, pretending sincerity.
His gaze narrowed, head tilting slightly.
"Who gave you permission to enter my study?" His question blindsided me.
I cleared my throat to reply, but he rose abruptly from his chair.
"Unless you have something useful to say, keep those delicate lips closed and return to your room," he snapped.
I only smiled in return.
"I thought perhaps we could piece the puzzle together, like we always do," I offered.
But he seized my wrist, spun me toward the door, and shoved me out.
"You're no help to me now. You only add to my burdens. Stay in your chambers, and come to me only when I need you."
I stumbled, regained balance, and glared at the closed door. For all his arrogance, this man couldn't even find a single woman. Pathetic.
Turning sharply, I intercepted a maid.
"Where is Lord Noah's chamber?"
Startled, she stammered before answering quickly.
"Down the corridor, left, then right. The last door at the end."
I left her standing there, determination steeling my steps. Stay in my room? Not a chance. If Liam couldn't handle this, I would take it upon myself—and in doing so, prove my worth. He was starting to forget it.
I knocked three times. The door swung open to reveal Noah, his expression puzzled.
"My lady?"
"Forgive the intrusion. May I speak with you?" I asked, masking my intent with a polite smile.
"Of course." He stepped aside, allowing me in—far too trusting for his own good.
"How can I help you, my lady?" he asked once the door shut behind us.
I turned to him with feigned worry. "I apologize for appearing unannounced, but I need your help."
A frown creased his face. "And with what?"
"Your sister has left the kingdom unattended. Her reckless choices frighten me. I may not know her as you do, but I understand enough to see she's put herself—and me—in danger," I whispered, my voice trembling.
His eyes widened. He guided me quickly to a chair. "What do you mean?"
"Since she left, everything has worsened. My life was never easy, but now…" I let my words trail off, weaving a trap.
"What are you getting at?"
"The king." I let a tear streak down my cheek. "He abuses me. As his mistress, I stayed silent at first, but it's unbearable now. Whenever the guards return with bad news about her, he takes it out on me. He's blinded by obsession. He doesn't truly care for anyone."
I tugged my sleeve up, revealing bruises. His expression shifted to one of alarm.
"I'm sorry for what you've endured, but I don't see how I can help. I can't defy the king—you're asking the wrong person," Noah said, retreating.
"No," I countered quickly. "I don't want you to defy him. That would be treason. But you can help in another way. You're Hazel's brother. If anyone can reach her, it's you. She's the only one who can help me. Help us."
He hesitated, clearly torn.
"What if we can't find her?" he asked.
I placed my hand over his, smiling reassuringly. "We will. I'm certain of it. But first, you must agree to help me."
He studied me, then finally nodded.
"Alright. Let's find her."
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