Chapter 120: Under your shadow
Layla hugged Lucius, who was ready to leave to Spain. She clung to him, as though her hold alone could somehow keep him from leaving. Lucius wrapped his arms warmly around her, his hands stroking her back in a comforting rhythm as they shared the embrace, neither wanting to be the first to let go.
When they finally pulled apart, Lucius cupped her face, his thumb brushing gently across her cheek, his gaze soft but intense as he searched her eyes.
Without a word, he leaned down and captured her lips in a deep, lingering kiss. Layla melted into it, her hands sliding up to rest against his chest as she leaned into him, the world around them fading away until there was nothing but the closeness they shared.
The kiss deepened, and they found themselves lost in each other, reluctant to break this connection.
But then, Layla was the first to gently pull away, her breathing unsteady as she whispered, "It’s time for you to leave." Her eyes held his, the intensity of her gaze locking onto his piercing blue ones, both unwilling to break the moment.
Lucius sighed, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Hmm. Take care of yourself," he murmured before planting a soft kiss on the middle of her forehead. "I’ll return soon. And remember, if you go out, take Aiden with you. I know you’re strong, but protection is important too."
Layla managed a small smile, nodding reassuringly. "I’ll go with Aiden whenever I leave. Don’t worry. I won’t keep you in concern about me," she promised, her hands resting on his shoulders. She leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek, her warmth lingering on his skin and making him smile.
Lucius hesitated, his hand slipping from her cheek as he slowly stepped back, as though reluctant to sever the connection.
Finally, he turned and made his way toward the waiting chopper. Layla’s heart tightened as she watched him climb aboard, pausing to look back at her one last time, giving a gentle wave before the door slid shut.