The afterglow lingered in the library tower like a heavy crimson fog. The three of them lay tangled together on the wide cushions—sweat-slicked skin, cum, and the faint scent of sex clinging to everything. Luna was curled against Lucifer's chest, still breathing hard, her body trembling with exhaustion and satisfaction. Ella lay on his other side, one leg thrown possessively over his thigh, fingers tracing idle patterns across his abs.
For a long moment, none of them spoke. The only sound was their slowing heartbeats and the distant hum of the mana reactors far below the palace.
Lucifer stared at the ceiling, crimson eyes distant. The weight he had been carrying since the dream with the goddess pressed down on him heavier than ever. He couldn't delay this anymore.
"I have to leave," he said quietly.
The words cut through the warmth like a blade.
Luna lifted her head first, eyes widening. "What?"
