Page 73 of The Lycan King's Secret Child

Amelia: "So you stayed away, leaving me to raise him alone."

Xander: "I thought it was the only way to keep you both safe."

Amelia: "You could have told me. Give me a choice."

Xander: "You're right. I made the wrong decision."

She looked out the window, emotions swirling.

Amelia: "So why now?"

Xander: "The threats have been neutralized. It's finally safe."

Amelia: "And you expect to just walk back into our lives?"

Xander: "No. I don't expect anything. I just want a chance to be part of Liam's life, if you'll allow it."

She met his gaze.

Amelia: "He's a happy child. I won't let anything disrupt that."

Xander: "I would never hurt him. Or you."

Amelia: "Trust is earned, Xander. And right now, I don't trust you."

He nodded slowly.

Xander: "I understand. I'm willing to do whatever it takes."

She sighed.

Amelia: "I need time to think."

Xander: "Of course. Take all the time you need."

They sat in silence for a moment.

Amelia: "I should go."

She stood up, and he followed suit.

Xander: "Thank you for meeting with me."

Amelia: "Goodbye, Xander."

As she walked away, he watched her, a mix of hope and regret in his eyes.

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Back at home, Liam ran to greet her.

Liam: "Mommy! Aunt Sophie and I made cookies!"

Amelia: Smiling "Did you save any for me?"

Liam: "Maybe."

Sophie emerged from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a towel.

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