Nicholas’s POV
I stepped out of Hazel’s hospital room, my chest still tight with worry. The beeping machines and her pale face stayed burned in my mind. I couldn’t sit there doing nothing while someone who tried to kill her was still walking free. I turned to the three strongest guards standing outside and two of Hazel’s own warriors.
“Guard this room with your lives,” I said, my voice low and hard. “Nobody is allowed to enter. Not servants, not doctors unless I approve them first. If anyone tries, you stop them. Understand?”
They all bowed deeply, faces serious. “Yes, my King.”
I gave them one last look, making sure they felt the weight of my words, then walked away with Marco right beside me. My steps were fast, anger and fear pushing me forward. The palace halls felt too quiet now,
