Henry was in the corner of the bed.
Cowering.
He had drawn himself against the bedpost, one hand pressed to his head, the other gripping the coverlet. His breathing came harsh and broken, leaving him in whimpers.
Lionel stopped dead at the entrance to the bedchamber. Never in his life had he seen Henry like this.
This was not the king.
Stephen, however, rushed forward like lightning. "Your Majesty."
Henry's head snapped up. His eyes were wild, filled with terror so naked that Lionel looked away. "Go away!"
"Your Majesty, I shall not."
"Go away," Henry pleaded. "Please. I beg of you."
Stephen sank to his knees before him. "Where is Lady Livia?" he asked.
His face crumpled. "She's gone too."
"No, no, sire," Stephen said quickly. "She is in the palace. Surely she is."
Henry shook his head. "She is gone," he whispered. "I am a monster."
Lionel stepped forward. "Your Majesty," he said carefully. "Shall I bring Lady Livia to you?"
