Chapter 8: Evelyn's Obsession

The manor felt suffocating. Serena lay in bed, her body battered and her throat raw from Evelyn’s attack, but it wasn’t the physical pain that tore her apart — it was the bond. The stubborn, unyielding bond that still pulsed in her chest, tethering her to Lucien like an anchor. She hated it. She hated him. But even now, she could feel his emotions trickling through the connection — guilt, regret, anguish. And worse, love. The kind of love that dug its claws into her soul and refused to let go. The door opened. Lucien stepped inside, moving slowly, cautiously, like he was afraid to scare her away. He carried a tray of food, his knuckles bruised and split from the fight with Evelyn. “You should eat,” he said, voice rough. Serena turned her face to the wall. “I’m not hungry.” Lucien set the tray on the nightstand and sat at the edge of the bed. He didn’t try to touch her, but his presence was overwhelming. “I sent Evelyn away,” he murmured. “She won’t come near you again.” Ser