Husband With Benefits

And yet, Lucien would not even look at her, but simply spoke," I have to get back to the office now. I’ll see you later. Goodnight."

As Lucien made a move to leave, Evana’s fingers instinctively clung to the corner of his jacket, a silent plea in her eyes. The material strained, forcing Lucien to come to an abrupt stop. In the room, a weighty silence hung in the air, covered with Evana’s confusion and Lucien’s coldness.

Her voice, a delicate blend of vulnerability and determination, broke the silence, "Lucien, please, don’t go."

Lucien let out a weary sigh, weariness etched across his posture, yet he made no attempt to break free or turn to look at her. But Evana was encouraged. Whatever it was that was causing this distance could probably be resolved.

With a glimmer of hope, she let go of his jacket and encircled his waist with her arms, pressing her cheek against his back. She felt him stiffen at her touch but she could only press her cheek against his back as she closed her eyes and whispered," Lucien, I’m scared."

Lucien closed his eyes and inhaled slowly as her warmth seemed to penetrate to him through his clothing. He looked down at her small hands, holding onto him and felt his heart ache. "Evana..."

He felt her shake her head against him as she interrupted him," Lucifer. I know we’ve been busy over the last few weeks. But I also know that our love is strong. But I’m scared. I don’t know why but even now, as I am holding you, I feel as if there is a wall between us. A wall that I cannot even see, let alone scale it. I’m scared Lucifer that I’m losing you."

Lucien’s jaw tightened as he heard these words, even as he felt suffocated at this moment, her fear stirred him.. Closing his eyes against the memories that were battering at him, he brought his hands up pry her fingers apart.

But as his hand touched hers, she continued, "I can’t lose you, Lucy. I cannot."