Page 196 of Bound By Crimson
It burned.
It was the best thing she’d ever tasted.
But the ache in her chest didn’t fade.
She was only eating because she had to.
Because she had to be strong.
Because she had to get to him.
The door opened.
Editha.
She swept in like royalty—black blouse, pearl earrings, calm as ever.
“I heard you finally woke up,” she said with a smile.
Lyric stiffened.
Editha stepped to the end of the bed and clasped her hands like she was admiring a painting.
“You gave birth to a beautiful baby boy,” she said sweetly. “Strong Thornwick genes. You should be proud.”
Lyric’s voice was fragile. “Where is he?”
Editha tilted her head. “He’s being well cared for. Edwin is resting peacefully.”
Lyric’s lips parted. “His name is Noah.”
“No,” Editha corrected, “his name is Edwin. A proper Thornwick name. He’ll carry the legacy now.”
Lyric’s jaw tightened. “Let me see him.”
Editha’s smile widened. “You’re still so weak. Look at you. Barely sitting up. Can’t even feed yourself. And you think you’re in a state to raise a child?”
Lyric’s hand clenched the blanket.
“I said I want to see him.”
Editha laughed. “You poor thing. I warned you. You weren’t ready for motherhood. You’re not strong. Not like the Thornwick women. You’re just a carrier. A womb.”
Lyric’s body shook. “You’re sick.”
Editha raised an eyebrow. “Excuse me?”
“I know what you did,” Lyric snapped. Her voice shredded as it rose. “I know who I am. I know who you are.”
Tessa froze.
Editha didn’t move.
“I know about my mother—Eden. I know you’re my grandmother.”
Tessa gasped, her eyes wide—not with surprise, but something closer to fear.
“And Malachai…” Lyric’s voice cracked, tears spilling down her cheeks. “He’s…my uncle.”
