Chapter 51. Family Meeting

Cercei's POV

Unlike every other day, Lucian was noticeably absent from the café today. It’s hard to put into words, but there’s a real sense of something missing. I grudgingly admit that the café feels so much more vibrant when he occupies his usual spot in the corner, indulging in his pancake garnished with cream and sprinkles, pretending to peruse a magazine.

My motivation has taken a nosedive today; all my smiles have been mere facades. Claire must have sensed my dismay, but she refrained from teasing me about it. I’ve somehow grown accustomed to Lucian’s presence, and now I can’t help but feel an emptiness when he’s not around. Could Claire actually be right? Could it be that I actually have feelings for him?

But I despised him, or at least I thought I did. I let out yet another sigh; this is the millionth time today. I was abruptly jolted when the bells chimed, causing my head to snap in that direction. My heart sank when I realised it wasn’t him. It was my Aun