Cercei's POV

“I have to go. I’ll be back later. Stay here, don’t go anywhere,” Lucian uttered. With a swift motion, he rose from his seat and quickly left. I found myself gazing at his retreating figure, utterly baffled. What could have compelled him to rush off in such haste? He had simply abandoned his meal, left untouched. I shook my head in dismay. What a waste.

I retrieved his deserted plate and returned it to the kitchen, speculating that perhaps he had been called elsewhere for an important matter. It certainly appeared to be an urgent affair.

“Why do you bring back the food?” Claire inquired as she noticed...