Chapter 81 — A Strange Royal
Taking a deep breath, Lucian let his emotions slip, the faint knocks he intended turning into loud bangs.
The door slowly creaked open, revealing Cynthia. Her silver hair appeared first, followed by the rest of her figure. It seemed she hadn’t changed from the outfit she wore at the party—the dress was far too extravagant for an ordinary occasion.
I thought she didn’t want to use the duchy’s funds... yet she went out dressed like this.
"What were you thinking back there?" Lucian demanded, his voice cold, teeth clenched as he fought to keep his tone low—though it was barely working.
"I—I..." Cynthia stammered, her mind going blank under his piercing gaze.
What exactly did he hear that had angered him so much? She couldn’t tell.
Lucian let out an exasperated breath, tilting his head back in frustration.
"Hah... Don’t bother." His voice was laced with coldness. "I don’t want an explanation." His glare cut into her, leaving no room for defense.
"Y-Your Highness," Cynthia’s lips trembled, but she forced a smile to mask her emotions.
"Why... Why are you here now? I heard..." She faltered before gesturing weakly. "Please, come inside." She clenched her fists, trying to calm her racing heart that threatened to burst from her chest.
Lucian took a seat on the couch, his eyes never leaving her. Cynthia remained standing, hesitant to move for fear that whatever she did might only increase Lucian’s anger. She hadn’t seen him this mad, even in her past life. He always kept his composure. Witnessing this side of him made her nervous, as if the man she knew before wasn’t even real.