Dr. Marlowe succeeded in pulling Serena away from the door and was trying to make the struggling girl face the other way when she heard Lucian's door open. She froze for a moment, her heart racing as she saw him step out. Instantly, she used her palm to cover Serena's mouth, silencing any potential outburst.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Draven," Dr. Marlowe said, her voice steady but laced with a hint of urgency. She forced a small, apologetic smile. "She did not knock. It was my elbow that hit the door while I was pulling her away." Her words tumbled out quickly, her tone smooth and practiced, as if she had rehearsed the lie a hundred times.
Just as expected, Serena tried to speak, but her words came out muffled as Dr. Marlowe's hand remained firmly over her mouth. Her eyes blazed with anger, and she struggled against the older woman's grip, though not enough to break free.
