Elian sat in the lavish chamber, staring blankly at the tray of untouched food. His stomach twisted in knots, his thoughts a swirling mess of confusion, anger, and disbelief. He still couldn't understand why he was in the palace.
He wiped away the remnants of his tears with trembling fingers, still reeling from his confrontation with Izan earlier.
The thought of him made Elian's chest tighten with pain. How could he have been so foolish to trust him, to fall for his lies? His hands clenched into fists as anger welled up inside him again.
A soft knock interrupted his spiraling thoughts, and his body went rigid. He quickly wiped at his face again, trying to compose himself.
The door creaked open, and Elian's heart lurched as the emperor stepped inside. His posture straightened in an instant, and he stood up, wiping his eyes hastily. He bowed deeply, trying to mask his emotional turmoil.
