SERAPHINA'S POV
"Okay, Lucas. I think it's time you leave now."
Nicholas's voice cut through the room like a blade. cold, final, and laced with barely contained irritation.
For the first time since we had entered this room, he said the right thing. My heart gave a small, treacherous leap of relief.
Lucas stared at him in disbelief, his fake fatherly mask cracking for a split second. "But my daughter… she looks so pale. She needs me here."
"She doesn't want you here," Nicholas replied flatly, stepping closer until he was towering over Lucas. "I think that's clear enough."
Lucas almost insisted, opening his mouth to argue, but Nicholas closed the distance between them in one fluid motion and placed a firm hand on his chest, not quite a push, but a clear warning.
"You wanted to see her. I have been kind enough to let you do so. Don't make me drag you away."
The threat hung heavy in the air. Lucas's face flushed with embarrassment and barely suppressed rage.
