[ Lucian staggered to a stop just outside Mati’s shop, unaware of her presence as the warm light spilled across his figure. A bottle of alcohol dangled loosely from his hand, tilting with each unsteady breath. He leaned back against the wall near the entrance, head dropping slightly, jaw tight as if holding something in. The city blurred around him, his control slipping in quiet, uneven breaths—just enough for the weight he carried to show, even if he didn’t realize who was standing so close. ]