Chapter 24: You’re funny, Layla
As Layla returned from the washroom, she found Lucius sitting upright against the headboard, his eyes closed and hands loosely clasped in his lap, clearly having dozed off in that uncomfortable position.
His peaceful expression softened her heart, and she hesitated for a moment as she moved closer, reaching for a blanket.
She draped it over him gently, her hand hovering near his shoulder. For a split second, she considered letting him rest, but she knew he couldn’t sleep like that all night.
"Lucius," she whispered, leaning down to nudge his shoulder softly. "You should lie down."
Without warning, Lucius stirred, his eyes fluttering open. In one swift motion, he pulled her down onto the bed with him. Layla gasped in surprise as he wrapped his arm around her, securing her against him. He clapped his hands, and instantly, the lights dimmed, plunging the room into darkness. His leg slid over hers, entangling her completely.
Layla’s breath hitched as she realized how tightly he held her. "Lucius," she muttered, her voice muffled against his chest, "I can’t breathe. Give me some space."
Immediately, his grip relaxed, though not enough for her to slip away. She attempted to shift, but his arm still rested around her, keeping her close. Despite her efforts, creating any distance between them seemed futile.
"Are you asleep?" Layla whispered softly.
"Not yet," Lucius murmured in response, his voice low and calm in the dark.