After D’Argon stormed out with Lily, slamming the front door behind him, silence fell over the Valeblood mansion like a heavy curse. Lucien didn’t say a word. He stood rooted in place, his jaw tight, fists clenched at his sides as if trying to hold back the rage threatening to erupt again.

Damon stood opposite him, breathing unevenly, his lip bleeding from D’Argon’s blow, shame written all over his face.

Lucien finally turned his eyes on his beta — no, his *best friend* — and for the first time in years, Damon couldn’t find recognition in them. Only disgust.

“I don’t even know who you are right now,” Lucien muttered...