Viya's POV
I hesitated, my throat tightening. I didn't want to be alone with him anymore—not after everything.
Lucius must have sensed my reluctance. "I could come up to your apartment instead? With Sophia there, you shouldn't feel... uncomfortable."
"Alright."
That I could agree to. In my own space, I'd feel safer. More in control.
"When should I come up?"
"Give me five minutes."
That would give Sophia time to prepare, whether she was working late or gaming. Either way, she'd be a buffer.
I ended the call to find Caesar watching me with furrowed brows. "Lucius?"
"Yes."
"What does he want?"
"He says he has something to discuss with me."
My voice came out flat. Distant. The careful neutrality I'd cultivated throughout my marriage.
We rode the elevato
