CHAPTER 39
Lucien
I didn’t need to search for her, I could feel her. Every movement, every sigh, every tremor carried across the estate like an echo meant only for me.
When I found her again, curled up in the library chair, I didn’t approach quickly. I let her notice me in her own time. When her eyes lifted to mine, wide and vulnerable, the ache in her chest reflected the ache in mine.
“I’m here,” I said softly, and she flinched at the sound of my voice, yet did not move away. Her lips trembled, and I could see the tears she tried to hide. I reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face, my thumb grazing her cheek. She shivered under the touch.
“Why do you have this effect on me?” She whispered, almost to herself.
“I’ve been waiting,” I said, “for the moment you finally let me in and now, I will not let you go.”
Her body leaned subtly toward me, and I knew then that resistance was fading. Desire, longing, and trust tangled in her gaze, and I let myself lean closer.