129 - Before

"Before you, there was one other omega whom Maximillian loved dearly."

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"... Mother."

Douglas slipped into the ward.

"I am alone," he pointed out, just to make Maximillian stop bristling in defense. "I heard about the attack. Well, it was on the news. I just had to take a look at Julian. How are you, dear?"

Julian's reply, though polite, held a layer of formality that hadn't been there before. "I'm alright, thank you," he offered, his voice strained, creating a palpable distance between him and Douglas.

Douglas handed the bouquet of daisies to Maximillian.

"Max, will you please find a vase for the flowers? I would love to have a little chat with Julian."

Maximillian arched a brow at his mother.

"Whatever you need to tell him, you can safely tell in my presence."

Douglas sighed.

"So you don't even trust your mother."