[The Garden—Later—Imperial Palace—Lavinia's POV]
Sera poured warm tea into delicate porcelain cups, steam rising softly into the air. Birds chirped from the garden trees, petals drifting lazily across stone paths. Marshi nudged his mate gently, puffing his chest like a proud fool, clearly attempting to charm her.
The atmosphere was romantic.
Peaceful.
Perfect.
Except—
"This is supposed to be family time," Papa snapped, shooting a murderous glare at Rey, who was practically vibrating with love while staring at Sera. "I fail to understand why so many unnecessary people are present."
Rey did not even blink.
General Luke sat comfortably beside Haldor, calmly adding exactly three sugar cubes into his tea like he owned the place. Theon sulked dramatically on the other side, arms crossed, face twisted in betrayal. Ravick stared intensely at Marshi and his mate as if trying to solve the universe.
And me?
I was sitting between Haldor and Papa, wondering—
