Victoria's eyes gleamed with sudden realization. She frowned slightly and whispered, "Alexander, have you noticed how Amy treats that boy Oliver compared to Liam? It's like she favors him over her own son."

Alexander hadn't paid much attention until Victoria pointed it out. His brow arched as he observed the scene unfolding.

Whatever Oliver had said must have been endearing, because Amy's face softened into a warm smile as she gently wiped the corner of his mouth with a napkin.

Oliver gazed up at her with adoration, his eyes shining with trust—as if she were his mother.

The sight pierced Liam's heart like a blade.

There was a time when his mother had treated him with that same tenderness. But now, she barely came home, as though he didn't exist.

"Dad," Liam murmured, his voice small, "does Mom not want me anymore since she has Oliver?"

Before Alexander could answer, Victoria quickly interjected, "Of course she still wants you, sweetheart. Amy's just... momentarily distracted. You're her son. She would never abandon you."

"But she always takes his side!" Liam snapped, his resentment bubbling over. "I don't care! If she doesn't want me, then I don't need her either!"

Victoria squeezed his hand gently, her voice soothing. "It's okay, Liam. Even if she's not here, I'll always be here for you."

Liam looked up at her with gratitude. "You're the best, Victoria..."

Then, his expression faltered, his eyes welling with tears.

"But... you're only staying for six more months. After that, you'll be gone."

Victoria's smile wavered.

She had almost forgotten. But she quickly composed herself, her own eyes misting.

"I don't want to leave you either, Liam. If I have to go... who will take care of you?"

Liam threw his arms around her. "I don't want you to die! Please don't die, Victoria!"

Alexander watched them, his chest heavy. After a moment, he spoke. "Nathan mentioned a specialist—a renowned doctor. If we can find him, he might be able to buy you more time."

Victoria's eyes brightened with hope. "Really?"

Alexander nodded. "But he's difficult to track down. Nathan's doing everything he can. If there's news, you'll be the first to know."

Victoria sighed wistfully. "I just want more time with Liam. If I could see him grow up, I'd have no regrets."

Alexander was silent for a beat before murmuring, "Don't think like that. You'll be fine."

As they settled into their seats, Liam ordered a children's meal. Glancing at Amy, he suddenly said, "Victoria, I want a milkshake too."

Victoria smiled. "Of course, sweetheart. Anything you want."

But Alexander frowned. "No. You know you're lactose intolerant. You can't have that."

Liam pouted. "Mom never lets me have anything fun. She says it's bad for kids. But she shares milkshakes with other kids. She's just lying to keep them for herself."

Victoria's eyes sparkled with mischief. She leaned into Alexander, her voice teasing. "Oh, Alexander, don't be so strict. Just one little sip won't hurt."

Her gaze flickered toward Amy before she added, "Besides..."