~ Lucian’s POV

The guards nodded, grabbing Bella’s adoptive parents by the arms and leading them out. Bella watched them go, her emotions a mixture of relief and sadness. Once the door closed, she turned to me, her eyes glossy with unshed tears.

“I’m sorry,” I said softly, pulling her into my arms. “I know that wasn’t easy for you.”

She rested her head against my chest, taking a deep breath. “They were the only family I knew for so long, but... I can’t keep letting them hurt me. Thank you for standing by me.”

“Always,” I promised, holding her tighter.

She was quiet after her adoptive parents were escorted...