Chapter 268

Claire's POV I ducked into the bathroom to touch up my makeup, trying to look like I hadn't been crying. My eyes were still a bit puffy, but it would have to do. When I returned to Klein's side, he immediately noticed something was off. "Where did you go?" Klein asked, studying my face. "Your eyes, Claire..." "Just had to take care of something," I forced a smile. Klein frowned. "You don't look well" "Ladies and gentlemen," the host's voice echoed through the ballroom, cutting off our conversation, "His Majesty the King has arrived." All conversations stopped instantly. Everyone turned toward the entrance where King Aurelius was being wheeled in by his Beta. Despite his physical weakness, his presence commanded respect. My attention, however, was immediately drawn to another entrance. Lucius walked in with Lucas by his side, the boy looking adorable in his little suit. Klein sucked in a breath. He'd spotted them too. "Claire," Klein's voice was suspicious, "you went to see Lucius just