Elian took a deep breath and slowly turned, reluctantly lifting his face to look at Lucien.
Lucien's breath hitched as he saw the unshed tears brimming in Elian's eyes. Without thinking, he wrapped his arms around Elian's waist and pulled him in.
"Why are you crying?" His voice was surprisingly soft against Elian's ear.
Elian shuddered, his body instantly melting into Lucien's. "Nothing... it's just dust—"
"Don't lie to me, my Truth Seeker," Lucien murmured, raising his gloved hand to Elian's face. "You do not like me kissing Rowena, do you?" he asked, pressing his forehead against Elian's.
"That's not it, Your Grace. It is simply dust," Elian whispered.
Lucien shut his eyes. "I do not belong to you, Elian," he reminded him calmly.
Elian's fingers clawed at his palm. "I know that, Your Grace. I am not delusional—"
"Then why do you cry when I kiss another?" Lucien cut him off, his face darkening as he realized that Elian was bent on denying what he clearly felt.
