From childhood, Alexander had been groomed with elite training.

Essential survival skills like swimming were mastered before he could properly tie his shoes. At Royal Oaks Academy, swimming wasn't optional—it was a non-negotiable part of the curriculum, treated as vital as learning to read. Term-end competitions were fierce, with parents watching like hawks.

Oliver, however, hadn't conquered the water yet.

A near-drowning incident last summer left him trembling at the sight of pools. But pride wouldn't let him admit defeat. He'd promised himself—and Amy—that he'd learn before finals.

Amy had smiled when he told her, ruffling his hair. "You'll get there."

Liam froze mid-step, his pulse spiking.

He'd forgotten.

He could swim.

Weeks ago, Oliver had caught him tailing them near the lake.

"Liam," Oliver had drawled, smirking. "Didn't think you'd stalk us this far. So? What's the verdict?"

Liam's jaw clenched at the easy camaraderie between Oliver and Amy. His retort was venomous. "She's my mother. No matter how much time you steal, you'll never be her real son."

"I call her Mom. You call her Amy. That's the line you'll never cross."

"She's just angry with me right now. You're a placeholder."

"Think if I grovel sweetly enough, she won't drop you and run back to me?"

Oliver's smirk faltered. He'd needled Liam relentlessly, savoring each small victory when Amy chose his side. But beneath the bravado, he knew the truth—Liam still held the bigger piece of her heart.

Not that it mattered.

Time and devotion would change that.

Patience, though, wasn't Oliver's virtue. Liam's words slithered under his skin. Their bond wasn't unshakable yet. If Liam truly tried to win her back...

He couldn't risk it.

His gaze flicked to the lake, recalling how Victoria had framed Amy by faking a fall. Without that security footage, Amy would've been crucified by Liam and Alexander.

A plan crystallized.

He grinned, taunting, "If you're so special, why did Mom tell me your secret?"

Liam's eyes narrowed. "What secret?"

"Wouldn't you like to know?" Oliver sauntered toward the water's edge. "I'm bored. Going to find Mom."

"Oliver—wait!"

Liam grabbed his arm. Oliver yanked free, stumbling backward—

And let himself fall.

The lake swallowed him whole.

His last sight was Liam's horrified face.

Perfect.

Gasping theatrically, Oliver thrashed. "Help! Liam—you pushed me!"

Liam stood paralyzed.

By the time he reacted, Oliver was already sinking, his cries echoing across the water.