Chapter 46. The Boutique

As Zayn walked down the stairs with Lucien following behind, Lucien wondered why the sitting room was quiet. On most occasions, Amy would be sitting on the couch, or Vera would be somewhere nearby, moving around or giving orders. But this time, it was silent—too silent.

He didn’t get the chance to think much about it before they stepped outside.

The air was fresh, but the sunlight made him squint. His thoughts shifted immediately.

Where is he taking me? Why am I outside?

Lucien’s eyes scanned the surroundings as they walked across the paved driveway. He remembered the last time he had been outside—really outside—was the day Emily and he had decided to head to the market. That day felt like a lifetime ago. That was also the last time he saw Emily.

The memory tugged at his chest, but it was quickly interrupted when he noticed movement ahead.

A small group of people stood near a sleek van—the kind of expensive, glossy black van billionaires use. Ther