章 44: Clearance of assumption

Lucian let out a faint sigh, the tension in his stance easing only slightly as he adjusted his cloak with a swift, practiced movement. His eyes remained fixed on Ruelle, his gaze sharp and assessing, as if quietly taking inventory of her dishevelled state.

"Wear your shoes," he instructed, his voice quiet but firm. "Let's get back. Blake and your friend are still searching for you."

Ruelle blinked, momentarily disoriented, before glancing towards the door where her shoes lay haphazardly on the floor. She bent down to pick them up, while noticing how his gaze never wavered. When she glanced back at him, his expression remained unreadable, a hint of scrutiny lingering in his eyes. He didn't move. 

"Is… something wrong?" she asked hesitantly, feeling a shiver run down her spine under his unyielding stare.