Lucian didn't miss the subtle shift in Cedric's expression—a slight furrow in his brow, a tightening of his jaw before a long sigh escaped. His gaze remained probing, searching for a flaw in Lucian's calm demeanor.
"You know my name?" Cedric's voice was lower, as if searching for an answer.
Lucian resisted the urge to chuckle. Instead of showing surprise or panic, he merely raised an eyebrow and offered a faint smile, as if the question were absurd.
"What do you mean?" his voice was light, almost teasing. "Weren't you formally introduced a short while ago?"
Cedric fell silent. It was logical; everyone at the reception knew his name. But why did this unease persist?
Lucian remained composed. In his mind, he'd reached a conclusion. Cedric might be a regressor, but his memories were incomplete—a significant advantage for Lucian. A subtle smile played on his lips, almost the expression of someone who'd discovered something intriguing.
