After a brief moment of thought, Lucian turned back towards Lia.
She was looking at him with an expression that was both confused and filled with desire, her golden eyes carrying a quiet hunger she was desperately trying to suppress.
And seeing that gaze… he couldn't help but swallow faintly.
"Lia…"
His voice remained calm—at least outwardly.
"Where's Mom?"
Lia's expression immediately stilled. Then, a tiny frown appeared between her brows.
She knew perfectly well he was talking about their mother, but even so… hearing him suddenly ask about another woman while she was sitting on his lap sent a wave of jealousy surging through her chest.
"I don't know…" she answered after a brief pause.
"Though… she might be in the library right now."
"Hm…"
Lucian quietly nodded.
Noticing the annoyed look she was giving him, he could only sigh inwardly.
Before she could say anything else…
He suddenly leaned forward.
Then—
Lia's eyes flew open, widening in disbelief.
