Vincent arrived at Lucian's mansion, a place that still felt strange to him despite the connection he had with Anastasia. The grand entrance and luxurious surroundings reflected the power and legacy of the Vasiliev family. As he stepped inside, he was immediately greeted by the sight of Lucian waiting for him, looking as imposing and regal as ever.
"Vincent," Lucian said with a slight nod. "I'm glad you came."
Vincent didn't waste time with pleasantries. "What do you need from me?"
Lucian motioned for him to sit, and Vincent complied. "We've both said things that were meant to guide you, but I know your heart has already made its decision. You love my daughter. I can see it in your eyes, in the way you are willing to sacrifice everything for her."
Vincent didn't respond immediately, letting Lucian continue.
"But there's more you need to understand," Lucian said. "I know you've been avoiding your family's legacy. You've let your brother take the heir position because you care for him. But now, it's time for you to choose. If you truly want to be with Anastasia, you need to become the man you were born to be."
Vincent's gaze hardened. "You mean, the heir to my family's empire."
Lucian nodded. "Yes. You are more than an idol, Vincent. You are more than just a man of great intelligence and beauty. You are the heir to a legacy that cannot be ignored. I know you've sacrificed so much, and I understand why you've done it. But your brother has had his chance. It's time for you to take what is rightfully yours."
Vincent's mind raced. His family—his father, his mother, his brother—they had all been asking him to return to the fold for years. They wanted him to take back his position as heir. And now, Lucian was offering him a chance to step up and become the king he needed to be—not just for himself, but for Anastasia.
He knew that Lucian's words were true. As much as he had loved his brother, and as much as he had wanted to spare him the burden of leadership, he couldn't ignore the reality: Anastasia needed a king, and only a king could stand beside her.
But there was still a part of him that hesitated. What would his brother say? How would he feel if Vincent took the throne?
Lucian seemed to sense his hesitation. "You don't have to worry about him, Vincent. You've given him the chance to lead. For now, let him enjoy his position. You will have your time, and when the time is right, you will take your place as the leader your family needs."
Vincent looked at Lucian, realizing the man was offering him more than just the chance to be with Anastasia. Lucian was giving him the opportunity to build something that would stand the test of time—a legacy, a future that would not be defined by the shadows of his family's expectations.
"I understand," Vincent said quietly. "I'll do it. I'll take the throne."
Lucian smiled slightly, a look of approval in his eyes. "Good. It's time for you to claim what is yours. And when you do, Anastasia will be by your side. But for now, we both know you have to keep your relationship with her a secret. You must protect it, just as we protect our empire."
Vincent nodded, a sense of determination settling into his chest. He was ready. Ready to take his place as a king, ready to claim the future he had always dreamed of—by Anastasia's side.