Chapter 85: The Love Of A Mother
"Mom, this is like the third time you’re searching for injuries I don’t have. I already told you, the attackers didn’t even touch me," Cyran said, exasperation mingling with affection as his mother’s hands flitted over him yet again.
His mother pulled back slightly to look at him. Her black hair, smooth and lustrous, framed her face in soft waves, falling past her shoulders. Her deep black eyes searched his face intently, refusing to yield to his protests. Her fair skin and flawless complexion were only enhanced by the slight furrow of worry on her brow.
"You may think you’re fine, Cyran, but until I see for myself, I won’t stop," she said firmly, her voice gentle. Her elegant navy gown, with its high neckline and delicate lace sleeves, shifted as she moved, her hand resting briefly on his chest as if to reassure herself of his safety. The thin diamond bracelet on her wrist caught the light.
"Mom, seriously," Cyran groaned, though the corner of his mouth twitched with a small smile. "I’ve told you everything. The attackers barely got near me before Ephyra and Malia’s bodyguard stepped in."
She sighed, drawing her hands back but not without a final once-over of his form. "I know, but you’re my son. What else am I supposed to do? You mean everything to me, Cyran. I couldn’t bear it if—" Her voice wavered slightly, and she quickly straightened, smoothing the lace of her sleeve with trembling hands.
"Mom." Cyran’s voice softened as he grabbed her hand. "I’m fine. I promise. I wasn’t hurt, not one bit."
"I know... I’m just scared," his mother admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. She let out a shaky breath, her shoulders drooping slightly. "When I heard about what happened, all I could think about was how easily I could have lost you. You’re all I have, Cyran. I can’t lose you."
Cyran’s chest tightened at her words. He gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. "You’re not going to lose me, Mom. I swear."
She nodded but didn’t look entirely convinced. Instead, she cupped his face gently with both hands, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. "You’re so much like your Emrys, you know. Always trying to reassure everyone else, even when you’re in pain. Promise me you’ll tell me if anything is wrong. Promise me."
"I promise," Cyran said sincerely, placing his hands over hers. "You don’t have to worry so much. Besides, I had Ephyra and Lance with me. And one of Ephyra’s bodyguards was also incredible. They wouldn’t have let anything happen to me."
A faint smile touched her lips at his words. "This Ephyra," she said thoughtfully, tilting her head. "You seem to trust her a lot. She must be quite special."