THE FATED HEIR

Liam dragged himself to his room, his body aching from the ordeal he had just endured. He began to change out of his tattered clothes, the fabric torn and frayed beyond repair. Liam felt a sense of relief as he removed the remnants of his shirt, despite the discomfort it caused his wounded back.

He carefully made his way to the bathroom, his steps slow and deliberate. Liam turned on the faucet, letting the cool water wash over his face and hair. The refreshing sensation helped calm his racing thoughts. After rinsing off, Liam used a towel to gently pat dry his face and hair.

Feeling slightly rejuvenated, Liam returned to his room and collapsed onto his bed, lying on his stomach. He didn't bother to tend to the wound on his back, despite the searing pain that shot through him. Liam was stubbornly unwilling to let anyone assist him, and he couldn't reach the wound himself. So, he lay there, wincing in agony, though it was slightly more bearable than when he was being whipped.

Liam closed his eyes, attempting to catch some sleep. His slumber had been fitful, and he hoped to find some respite. He lay there, his chest rising and falling with each slow breath.

Meanwhile, Liam had finally drifted off to sleep, even starting to dream, when he was jolted awake by faint knocks on his bedroom door. At first, he tried to ignore the sound, thinking it was just his imagination. However, the persistent knocking continued, forcing Liam to reluctantly get out of bed.

He shuffled to the door, his movements slow and groggy. Liam opened the door to reveal one of his brother's confidants standing in the hallway. The man's expression was serious, and Clement felt a sense of trepidation.

Liam greeted the man, who responded with a nod. The confidant explained that Alex had requested his presence in the study within five minutes. Liam felt a surge of unwillingness and fear at the prospect of meeting his brother.

He tried to compose himself, nodding at the confidant. Liam closed the door and returned to his room to change before heading to the study. His heart was racing with anticipation, and he couldn't shake the feeling that something was off.

Liam swiftly changed into more conservative clothing, ensuring the wounds on his back were concealed. He chose garments that would cover his injuries, providing a sense of protection. The soft fabric gently hugged his skin, offering a slight comfort.

Although fearful and uncertain about why his brother summoned him, Liam didn't dare to delay. He had no idea what to expect, but he knew he had to face his brother. With a deep breath, Liam steeled himself and hastily made his way to his brother's study.

His footsteps echoed down the hallway as he walked with a sense of trepidation. Liam's heart racing with anticipation, he wondered what awaited him. Would his brother be angry or understanding?

As he approached the study, Liam's anxiety grew. He hesitated for a moment, questioning whether he should turn back. But something compelled him to move forward.

With newfound determination, Liam grasped the doorknob and turned it. The door creaked open, and he stepped inside, ready to face whatever lay ahead.

As Liam entered the study, Alex looked up and asked, "Forgot to knock?" Liam's eyes widened in realization. He had indeed forgotten to knock, his mind preoccupied with thoughts.

Liam's face flushed with embarrassment as he apologized, "I'm sorry, I forgot." Alex didn't respond, leaving Liam uncertain. Had his brother forgiven him, or merely brushed it off as insignificant?

Liam couldn't help but wonder if Alex was still upset. The silence between them grew thicker, heavy with unspoken words. Alex's expression remained unreadable, offering no clues.

Breaking the silence, Alex asked, "I know today is a school day, or am I mistaken?" Liam's brow furrowed in confusion. Why was Alex asking about school?

Liam replied, "Yes, today is Thursday." He couldn't understand what his brother was getting at. Was there something specific about school that Alex wanted to discuss?

Alex's gaze lingered on Liam, his eyes seeming to bore into his soul. Liam shifted uncomfortably, feeling a sense of unease. What was Alex thinking?

The air in the study remained thick with tension. Liam waited for Alex to speak, but his brother remained silent. The quiet between them grew more oppressive, weighing heavily on Liam's shoulders.

Liam's mind began to wander, trying to make sense of the conversation. He thought back to his morning, wondering if he had missed something. But his thoughts were a jumbled mess, unclear and confusing.

As the silence stretched on, Liam started to feel anxious. He didn't know what to expect from Alex. Was he in trouble, or was Alex just trying to make conversation?

Liam's eyes darted around the room, searching for a distraction. But his gaze kept returning to Alex, who remained still and silent. The quiet between them was deafening.