Lucien’s POV
Ryan flinched slightly at the reminder. "This time will be different."
"Will it?" Diana challenged. "Or will you sacrifice me again when it becomes politically expedient?"
The words hung in the air between them, raw with old pain and unhealed wounds. I remained silent, recognizing that this moment between them had been brewing since Diana's return—the direct confrontation of past betrayal and present uncertainty.
"No," Ryan said finally, his voice firm with conviction. "Never again, Diana."
Something shifted in her expression, a subtle softening that spoke of defenses cautiously lowered. Not forgiveness, not yet, but perhaps the beginning of understanding.
"What do you need from me?" she asked after a moment.
"A complete inventory of your supplies," Ryan replied, relief
