Chapter 67

ELORA'S POV Work had been my only escape ever since Lucian’s friends and Maya arrived here, it was the only thing that belonged to me and wouldn't judge me—my little corner of focus away from all the stares and whispers that seemed to follow me around Lucian’s world. I placed my laptop in front of me, scrolling through fabric samples and sketching rough ideas that came to mind, losing track of time in lines and colours. If I buried myself deep enough, maybe I could forget the tension in my chest. Almost an hour later, someone knocked on the door, pulling me out of my thoughts. Nora peeked her head inside with a smile on her face. “Mummy, daddy says you should come down for lunch.” I forced a small smile on my face. “Sweetheart, tell daddy I'm busy, okay? You can all eat without me.” Her smile faltered a little, but she nodded. “Okay.” Then she closed the door softly behind her. I let out a heavy breath after she left. There was no way I was sitting at that table, pretending to belong w