If he wanted to he would
Something I see so often from eluciens is that Lucien is yearning for Elain. I do not believe his display of pain or tension is because he is longing for Elain herself. I see it as an innate response to the unaccepted mating bond.
The bond yearns to be accepted. Lucien cannot help how he feels drawn to Elain but there is a distinct difference.
Does Lucien truly care for Elain because he deigns to visit once in a while or respectfully gives her space or a few impersonal gifts? Does that entitle him to her attention and affections as Elain asks.
If he wanted to he would.
What does that look like? Offering himself in more meaningful ways. Not leaving town and rarely coming back. Definitely not coming back to Velaris only to say, “I’m not always in the city to see my mate.”
Sure, Lucien left on the premise of one of Elain’s visions… to help another woman and help her break her curse. This is a deliberate action.
I’m not convinced Lucien cares for Elain beyond the instincts of the mating bond.
Meanwhile, we have Azriel who is actively losing sleep over Elain. Staring longingly at her very personal gifts and questioning his religion to why she was given to another.
This is the difference.
Lucien is content to stay away because the mating bond causes him discomfort.
It’s been two years.
Again, if he wanted to he would.
Every single time Lucien has a chance to respectfully be there for Elain, offer her anything, he doesn’t but who does? Azriel. While Lucien’s constantly walking away, Azriel is right there offering his hand to Elain. This is DELIBERATE.
“She was nothing like Jesminda […] “She had loved him without question, without hesitation. She had chosen him.” […] “Elain had been… thrown at him.” ACOWAR, CH 24
Elain doesn’t want the bond, and neither does Lucien. Neither are to blame.
What do ya’ll take from Lucien in regards to Elain, the mating bond and his loyalties?