Chapter 185

• Lucian's POV
• My stomach turned, knots of dread tightening as I forced myself to remain outwardly calm. To protect Leah, I had to play along, at least until I could find a way to free her.
• I approached her slowly, murmuring assurances too soft for Jalin to hear. Her eyes widened in understanding mixed with a touch of betrayal, but she didn't resist. The trust she once had in me was fractured, yet she still followed my lead, perhaps sensing a familiarity she couldn't place.