Chapter 83

Lucas' POV:

I paced back and forth across the intricately woven Persian rug in the palace living room, my steps echoing through the opulent space. My heart thudded against my chest, anxiety bubbling within me like a tempest ready to erupt. Veronica's sudden disappearance had blindsided me, leaving me in a state of shock and remorse. The weight of my own actions pressed heavily upon me, gnawing at my conscience.

"Where could she have gone?" I muttered to myself, my voice barely audible. The ornate walls seemed to close in on me, suffocating me with their grandeur. The room, once a place of respite, now held an air of uncertainty that hung thick in the air.

Just as despair threatened to consume me, a gentle hand rested on my shoulder. I turned to see my mother, the queen, standing beside me. Her face was etched with concern, lines of wisdom and grace. Her soothing presence provided a small respite from the torment raging within me.

"Lucas, my dear son," she said, her voice a gentle melo