Lucian didn't pause, didn't acknowledge the murmurs of the crowd or the worried glances from his family. He strode toward Avey with singular focus, his face a mask of calm that only thinly veiled his frustration.
No one stop him. The tension in the air was electric, every guest holding their breath as they watched the scene unfold.
Avey's heart skipped a beat as she saw him approaching. His expression was unreadable, his usual composure shadowed by something she couldn't quite place. Despite the chaos around her, Avey couldn't bring herself to look away.
"Lucy, you…" she began softly, her voice trembling just enough to betray her nerves. But before she could say more, Lucian reached her, his hand gently but firmly clasping hers.
The warmth of his touch caught her off guard, and though his grip was secure, it wasn't rough. Without saying a word, he turned and began leading her toward the grand staircase.
