Alina's POV
Lucian held my hand tightly, his fingers crushing mine as if he were desperately afraid I would vanish if he let go. He looked down at me, his dark eyes wide with anxiety. "Can I come inside with you?"
"You can't, Lucian," I said softly, giving his hand a gentle, reassuring squeeze. "The Council isn't exactly fond of rogues. Stepping in there will only make things worse."
He let out a frustrated breath, but his grip didn't loosen. "That's fine. But I will wait right outside the doors for you if I have to. I just want to be close to you."
I offered him a grateful smile and nodded. "Let's go then." Turning back toward the hallway, I looked at my brother. "Sammy, please take care of Leo while I'm gone."
"No problem," Sammy replied instantly, giving me a supportive nod. "His uncle has got him covered."
