NIRELLE

The intense stare between Lucine and me was so strong that I wanted to break eye contact first, but looking away meant he would win, and I had to win. I insisted that I was strong enough to go to my room, and he said I was not and needed to be looked after, and thus began the unintentional eye contact war.

"Nirelle," Lucien's tone was gentle and comforting, but his gaze was still very intimidating.

"Lucien," I repeated, trying to mirror his tone but failing woefully. How was he able to ...