Chapter 348: Foolish Confidence
Hektor’s son, Lucan, stood at the edge of the garden, the morning light casting soft shadows across the estate’s stone walls. The air was crisp, and a light breeze rustled the leaves of the tall oaks that lined the courtyard. Lucan’s gaze lingered on his wife, Clarisse, who cradled their child in her arms. She was radiant in the early light, her golden hair falling in soft waves around her shoulders, her violet eyes catching the sunlight as she looked down at their baby.
He smiled softly and walked toward her, his boots making quiet sounds on the gravel path. When he reached her, Lucan leaned down and gently kissed her chin. It was a small, affectionate gesture, but one that spoke volumes about the bond between them. Clarisse looked up at him, her lips curling into a soft smile as she met his gaze.
"Are you leaving already?" she asked, her voice carrying a hint of concern but laced with understanding.
Lucan nodded, glancing briefly at their child, who cooed softly in Clarisse’s arms. "Yes, love. Father needs me at the council. There are important matters to attend to. I won’t be gone for long, I promise."
Clarisse’s smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly regained her composure. "I understand," she said softly, looking into his eyes. "You must do what you need to for the family. Just... come back to us soon."
Lucan chuckled, though the weight of his responsibilities pressed against his chest. "I wouldn’t dream of staying away longer than I have to." He leaned in again, brushing a kiss against her forehead, then moved to gently touch the tiny hand of their baby. The child grasped his finger, and for a brief moment, all the weight of duty, of war, seemed to fall away.
"I’ll be back before you know it," Lucan added, his voice warm but firm, as if trying to convince himself as much as her.
Clarisse sighed, adjusting the baby in her arms. "Just stay safe. The world is dangerous, especially with everything that’s happening."
Lucan nodded, his face becoming serious. "I will. Father has things well in hand. There’s no need to worry."