Chapter 57: The Cost of Deception**

The courthouse loomed before me, a cold, imposing structure that matched the sinking feeling in my stomach. I tightened my grip on the summons, the paper now crumpled from the tension in my hands. Lily had always been cunning, always one step ahead. But dragging me into a legal battle? That was a new low—even for her.

Lucien's hand brushed against mine as we walked up the courthouse steps. "Are you sure you want to do this?" he asked, his voice low.

I squared my shoulders. "I don’t have a choice."

Inside, the sterile walls and the low hum of conversation did little to...