Selene’s POV

Lucian leaned against the edge of the mahogany desk, his glass of whiskey catching the dim light as he swirled it absentmindedly. The amber liquid shifted with a slow, deliberate rhythm, matching the quiet intensity in his gaze as he stared out the window. His usual commanding presence seemed subdued, the weight of unspoken burdens pulling his shoulders taut.

I stood a few paces away, unsure if I should speak or if my presence was enough ...