I was speaking the truth, but Lucius' brow was already furrowed into a knot.

Just then, the elevator doors opened. I tried to remain calm and walked out, but before I could take more than a few steps, I felt a tight grip on my wrist. Lucius had followed me and grabbed me firmly.

"Sylvie, say that again."

His voice was urgent, and the tone at the end was hoarse, inexplicably giving off a feeling of hurt.

I took a deep breath and said, "I’m ...