Chapter 171: He kept secrets

Lucius stepped into the room, his boots making a soft thud against the wooden floor. By the window, Layla sat with her legs dangling over the edge, the cool night breeze playing with her hair. Her head rested lightly against the window frame, her gaze lost in the dark expanse outside. At the sound of the door closing, she turned, her eyes meeting his.

"You took your time," she said, her voice a blend of mild reproach and quiet relief.