Richard Blackwood did not linger in the morning.
He never did.
Lucien watched from the edge of the dining room as his father buttoned his coat with mechanical precision, movements sharp and economical. There was no warmth in the goodbye, no sentimentality. Just a brief nod in Seraphina’s direction and a measured look at Lucien that said far more than words ever could.
“I expect results,” Richard said.
Lucien inclined his head. “You’ll have them.”
The door closed behind him with a final, echoing click.
Silence filled the penthouse.
Seraphina exhaled slowly, only now realizing how tightly she had been holding herself together. Her shoulders relaxed, just slightly.
“He doesn’t miss much,” she said quietly.
Lucien turned toward her. “No. He misses nothing.”
She hesitated. “I didn’t m
