THE KING'S POSSESSION

Chapter 100

Chapter 100: Assassinate the King

*A Few Weeks Ago*

After fulfilling Leticia's demand to be returned to the kingdom, Tristan knew there was one place he needed to go—somewhere far from the prying eyes of the palace.

He rode swiftly through the forest with his heart racing as the dense trees blurred past him. The path was narrow, winding deeper into the wilderness where few dared to venture. The sound of a distant waterfall grew louder, and soon, he arrived at a secluded clearing. Nestled within the lush greenery was a small, humble cottage, where the melody of birdsong filled the air. This was a place of refuge, a haven hidden from the world—a place where Liam and his grandmother, Teressa, had been living peacefully since the day Lucian's search for the boy began. The small cottage had been their home since the danger in the kingdom escalated. Lucian's relentless search for Liam had driven them into hiding, and Tristan had spared no effort in ensuring their safety.

As the horse came to a gentle stop, Tristan swung down from the saddle, his eyes brightening at the sight of Liam playing in the dirt. The boy's little hands were smeared with soil, and his face lit up with a joyful smile the moment he saw his father.

"Father! Father!" Liam called out, his voice high with excitement as he dropped the small trowel he was holding and ran toward Tristan.

Tristan crouched down, opening his arms wide as Liam barreled into him, wrapping his small arms tightly around his neck. "My little gardener," Tristan chuckled warmly, lifting Liam up and spinning him around. "What are you planting today, hmm?"

"Flowers, father!" Liam beamed, his eyes sparkling with pride. "Like the ones mama loved!"

Tristan's heart tightened at the mention of Isabel, but he kept his smile steady. "You're doing a wonderful job, Liam. Your mother would be so proud."

Liam's small hands reached up to touch Tristan's face, smudging dirt on his cheek. "Are you staying this time, father?"

Tristan hesitated and looked into his son's innocent eyes. "Not for long, my boy," he said gently, brushing a stray lock of hair from Liam's forehead. "But I promise, I'll be back soon."

The little boy's innocent trust in his father unwavering and so he nodded in response. "Okay, father. I'll keep planting while you're gone."

Tristan kissed Liam's forehead, holding him close for a moment longer. "That's my boy. Keep the garden beautiful."

As Tristan held Liam close, enjoying the warmth of their reunion, a gentle creak from the cottage door caught his attention. He turned just in time to see Teressa step out, carrying a plate of freshly prepared snacks for her beloved grandson. The moment her eyes landed on Tristan, the plate nearly slipped from her hands out of shock.

"Tristan," Teressa breathed, quickly regaining her composure as she steadied the plate. Her voice was filled with both surprise and worry she had been holding onto since his last visit.

Liam, sensing his grandmother's presence, wiggled out of Tristan's arms and ran toward her. "Grandmother! Father's home!" he exclaimed, his excitement filling the air as he tugged on her dress.

Teressa managed a smile for Liam, but her eyes remained fixed on Tristan. "Yes, my sweet boy, I see that." Her voice trembled slightly as she set the plate down on a nearby table, her gaze never leaving Tristan.

Tristan straightened, sensing the unspoken questions lingering in her gaze. He offered her a reassuring smile, though he knew the conversation ahead would be anything but easy.