Lucian's gentle voice softened further as he looked into Rose's eyes, a sad smile playing at his lips. "Look, Rose, I'll do whatever makes you and the family feel at peace," he said quietly, each word carefully chosen, as though speaking any louder would cause the fragile moment to shatter. He took a shaky breath before continuing, his gaze flickering, his vulnerability evident as he tried to hold himself together. "But before I go… could you do me just one favor?"
Rose felt her heart stutter, her throat tightening as she fought back a flood of emotions. His request caught her off guard, and though she tried to keep her composure, she could feel her control slipping. She hadn't heard Lucian ask anything of her in what felt like an eternity, and now, faced with the weight of his gentle plea, she was left speechless. His sad, almost resigned tone made it all the harder to bear.
