章 27: Outshone every star

"Why didn't you tell me that Lucius got married?" Evelina demanded, her voice laced with frustration as she faced Alekis.

"I didn't think you cared about Lucius," Alekis replied coolly, placing his half-burned cigar in the ashtray. "Weren't you too busy with your second family? When Lucius needed his mother, you were nowhere to be found." He leaned back in the armchair, his posture relaxed, but his eyes were sharp, scrutinizing her every move.

Before Evelina could respond, Nico, Alekis's trusted aide, entered the room and bowed respectfully. "My Lord, I received a message from Master Lucius's secretary. He is not interested in meeting any visitors and has a prior engagement for this evening's reception."

"Did you hear that, Eve?" Alekis said, a mocking smile tugging at his lips. "This is who Lucius has become. He doesn't take orders from anyone. He does as he pleases. You should go back instead of imposing yourself at this reception."