~ Lucian’s POV

As Bella finally noticed me, our eyes met across the room. I could see the surprise, relief, and something else, maybe a bit of doubt or worry, in her gaze. She quickly finished serving a table, her movements hesitant, as if she wasn’t sure whether to believe I was really there. Her face softened as she made her way over to me, and I could tell she was fighting to keep her emotions in check.

“Lucian?” she said, her voice barely above a whisper, full of disbelief. “Is it ...