Chapter 145: Facing the Past
TERESA’S P.O.V.
The my father’s words clung to me like a suffocating shroud as I clung to Lucian’s embrace, my tears soaking through his shirt. His warmth was the only thing grounding me in that moment, his steady voice murmuring reassurances into my ear.
"I’m here, my love," Lucian whispered, his hand rubbing gentle circles on my back. "We’ll figure this out. Whatever you need, I’ll handle it. You just need to breathe for me, okay?"
His words were a balm, but the storm inside me refused to calm. Then it struck me—I needed to call Luke.
I pulled back suddenly, breaking free of Lucian’s hold. His sightless eyes followed my movements as I crouched down and snatched the shattered phone from the ground. My hands trembled as I fumbled to piece it together and locate Luke’s contact.
"Teresa," Lucian said softly, his brows furrowing in concern. "What are you doing?"
"I need to call Luke," I replied, my voice shaky and raw from crying.
Lucian’s mouth tightened, but he said nothing, allowing me the space to act. I pressed the call button, and the line rang, each buzz tightening the knot in my chest.
Finally, Luke’s voice came through, loud and exasperated. "Teresa! It’s about damn time. You’ve been back for days, and you haven’t come to see me? Are you serious right now?"