Dinner at his uncle’s estate was quieter than it had ever been. The meal they had was the kind of meal Vincent used to dream about when he was younger. Now, the food sat untouched in front of him. Across the table, Gaius watched him closely. His uncle looked different these days. The deep lines of stress that once lived on his face had softened. His shoulders were relaxed, his movements unhurried. For the first time in years, Gaius looked like a man who could finally rest. Vincent had given him that peace. “You’ve done well,” Gaius said at last, breaking the silence. His voice was calm, steady. “The hospitals are thriving. The board doesn’t question your decisions anymore. I sleep better knowing the empire is in your hands.” Vincent nodded slightly but didn’t smile. Praise no longer warmed him the way it once did. Gaius studied him for another moment, then sighed and set his wine glass down. “I also heard about Meng Clothing.” Vincent’s fingers tightened around his c