[Violet]
"Violet, you can't just sneak out," Lucien scolded in a stern voice. His silver eyes were hard, his lips set in a line that was anything but forgiving. I'd never seen him make that expression before—something between frustration and worry. But I didn't need his protection. Not now. Not when I was trying to figure out how the hell I could get my sister out of there and why she was acting strangely.
"I'm not a child, Lucien. I can handle myself." The words came out colder than intended. I didn't like feeling like I had to explain myself to him, didn't like the way his concern made me feel weak.
Lucien's jaw clenched as he reached out for my wrist. His touch was firm, almost desperate, but I yanked my arm away from his grip.
"Violet," he said, voice now softer, pleading even. "I
