Chapter 44: The Devil’s Tale
Lydia and Ivan were still in the library. They were both half clothed, wrapped in each other’s warmth. She sat on his lap, her bare legs curled gently over his. His strong arms wrapped around her, and his fingers softly stroked her hair. Everything about the moment felt peaceful. Safe.
Lydia held a book in her hands, flipping through the pages slowly. Her lips parted slightly as she read, her focus deep in the story. Ivan watched her with a quiet smile, his heart full.
"You must really love reading," he said quietly, breaking the silence. "You’re always with a book."
She nodded slowly. "Hmm." Then she looked up at him, her eyes soft. "Reading makes me happy. When you read a story, it’s like you enter another world. A world where everything feels different. Safer. Warmer."
She turned her body slightly toward him, placing his hand on her chest gently. Her voice was calm but full of meaning. "It makes my heart beat faster. Just like when I’m with you."
Ivan stared at her, saying nothing at first. Then he leaned forward, gently kissed her hand, and whispered, "I’m glad."
"What about you?" she asked curiously. "Do you love reading?"
He nodded. "Yes. But not as much as you." He leaned in and kissed her neck softly.
She giggled at the ticklish sensation. "What’s your favourite book then?"
He paused for a moment, then smiled. "The Sailor’s Final Voyage."
Her eyes lit up in surprise. "Mine too! I love it So much! Elias was brave, smart and strong. Plus he travelled round the world in his ship. That reminded me about my parents." she said excitedly. "Why is it your favourite?"