Lucian's expression flickered, a mix of confusion and anguish crossing his face. The illusions knew where to hit him and it was working. His doubts about his worthiness as a partner to Lily, as a vampire, and as a protector intensified with each whisper from the illusions.
"You're a liability," an illusion sneered, its voice laced with disdain. "Lily deserves someone who can offer her stability and safety, not a creature of darkness like you."
Another illusion echoed the sentiment, its tone dripping with doubt. "You think you can keep her safe? You're nothing more than a predator, a constant threat lurking in the shadows. Someday, you'll lose control and she will die with her blood in your hands. "
Lucian's breath hitched as the illusions' words echoed through his mind. The weight of th
