Back in the dining hall, Lucianne continued putting on a smile to ensure those around her that she was okay. But only Xandar and Juan could see that she was merely putting up a brave front. 

Juan didn’t bring up what he knew. Neither he nor Lucianne were comfortable breaking down in public. He hoped to mind-link her later that night, away from the crowd, just to make sure that she was okay. Lucianne was well aware that her brother-like figure saw right through her. And why wouldn’t he? He had known her forever.

Xandar noticed that his mate was avoiding his gaze, and when he held her hand, her...