Cercei's POV
Lucian leaned casually against the hood of his car, hands nonchalantly tucked into his pockets, his messy hair adding an air of rugged charm. My heart danced to a livelier beat in his presence, pumping vibrant blood streams through my veins.
As I made my way across the street, his gaze locked onto me, his eyes steadily looking at me.
“Hey,” A warm smile curved my lips as I greeted him. However, in return, his smile lacked the usual intensity, a hint of unease etched on his face. I couldn’t help but notice a small cut on his lips, a mark that hinted at a deeper disturbance.
“Hi,” he replied, his voice strained, his smile forced. I furrowed my brows, my concern instantly surfacing. This was not the Lucian I knew. Not once had I seen him like this.
“Is something troubling y
