At dawn, Martha slipped into his room quietly, her expression warm but dutiful as she found him stirring.
"Good morning, little lord! ," she said, gently helping him sit up.
"It's time to get ready." She moved with practiced ease, choosing his clothes and dressing him carefully.
"your breakfast has been prepared downstairs," she murmured as she adjusted his collar.
"Would you like to go down now?"
Alister gave a small nod, and together they left his chambers, stepping into the grand corridor that overlooked the inner courtyard. Sunlight filtered through the high, arched windows, illuminating walls of white marble veined with pale blue, a tribute to the sea nearby. The soft ocean breeze wafted through open windows, filling the air with the scent of salt and morning dew.
As they descended the sweeping staircase, Alister's gaze fell upon the grand family portrait at the landing. It captured an image of his parents and himself, smiling in rare harmony. The golden-framed portrait stood out against the blue-and-white theme of the castle, with a deep red carpet lining the steps below, offering a striking contrast several servants lined up respectfully, bowing as he passed.
With a brief nod, he dismissed them, his gaze already set on the breakfast table prepared for him. The long dining table was arranged with an array of delicacies—freshly baked bread, creamy butter, ripe fruits, and steaming dishes of seasoned meats and pastries. Each plate was meticulously set, reflecting the castle's elegant yet restrained luxury.
He ate quietly, savoring each bite with a practiced calm, his thoughts lingering elsewhere. When he had finished, he glanced at his nanny, who stood nearby, awaiting his word.
While drinking his tea he asked, "How is my mother's health?" , his tone composed but with a hint of concern.
Martha hesitated, then replied gently, "She is resting, lord Alister. The physicians say she needs more time, but she'll be well cared for."
His mother's health had been in decline for years, weighed down by her relentless worries. Her disappointment in him for not being born an alpha, the fear of his father taking a second partner, her lost dream of knighthood, and the crushing demands of high society—all of it had slowly worn her down, leaving her a shadow of her former self.
In his memories, his mother had always been distant, cold, and full of unspoken criticisms, her discontent with him always palpable.
He had grown accustomed to her harsh glances and resented her for it, avoiding her like a plague. Yet now, armed with the wisdom—and scars—of his past life, he saw her differently. Her disdain had been rooted in her own unfulfilled dreams and unyielding fears, consuming her from within.
This time, he wanted to make amends.
He didn't know if he could fully forgive her, but he was certain he didn't want her to spiral into that same illness again. His own path had been darker than he'd ever imagined; now, he wanted something better for both of them.
Even if true warmth between them remained elusive, perhaps he could help her find some peace.
After finishing his breakfast, Alister turned to his butler, Robert.
"Prepare a carriage for me. I'm going to visit my mother at Neptura Castle."