The next day following their rekindled bond had passed in a haze of shared intimacy and stolen moments, yet the shadow of impending decisions loomed over Lily and Lucian like a gathering storm. On that day, the atmosphere seemed to hold a weight of its own.
Lily's fingers traced absent patterns on the edge of a book as she sat on the plush chair in Lucian's office. Her thoughts were a whirlwind of uncertainty, torn between the serenity of their newfound connection and the pressing urgency of the High Court's summons. In front of her and behind his desk, Lucian leaned against the bookshelf, his expression contemplative as he regarded her.
Marie had relayed to them that Nikolai was scheduled to visit that evening, carrying with him a message from the High Court.
A knock resonated through
