Emily's gaze darted between them; their gazes were locked in a fierce, silent battle, and the tension between them was palpable.
It was clear none of them wanted to back down, and none was ready to lower their head in defeat.
Emily found herself trapped in a potential crossfire; her heart raced with trepidation. She could feel Lucian's hand tightening around hers more and more — no doubt he was furious.
Emily would have preferred to speak to Lady Helena, but it was clear she didn't accept her, and at the moment she wouldn't stop at anything to play her role as Lucian's mother and assert her dominance.
Emily clasped Lucian's hand softly and tugged at him briefly, drawing his attention. He retracted his gaze briefly and glanced at her.
"Forget it," she whispered softly.
"Emilie," he called coldly. "I would advise you steer clear of my path," he warned.
"And if I say no?" Lady Helena interrupted swiftly.
"Mom… you don't force me," he smirked.
