Earlier, Leia had pretended to cry before Lucien, hoping he would falter, maybe soften even a little. But he didn't.
"That jerk," she muttered under her breath, wiping the corners of her eyes with the back of her hand. "He doesn't even flinch at a woman's tears. And yet, he once said he hated seeing women cry. What a hypocrite."
With a frustrated sigh, she dropped onto the mattress and hugged the nearest pillow. The fabric felt cold against her cheek as she let her thoughts spiral.
"At least... they're not forcing themselves on me," she whispered, a small relief blooming in her chest. "I'm glad I kept resisting. No matter how exhausting it's been."
She rolled onto her back, staring at the ceiling. 'Kieran... when will you come back?'
Suddenly, there was a knock on the door.
"It's me, Leia. I'm coming in."
Leia shot up, completely startled. Before she could even respond, Lucien walked in.
"We need to talk, Leia," he said firmly.
