HERS TO PROTECT

Chapter 8

Romantic Gestures

The eerie sounds of twigs snapping and leaves rustling outside their makeshift shelter sent a shiver down Lia's spine. She clutched Ethan's arm tightly, her eyes wide with fear. "What was that?" she whispered, her voice barely above a breath.

"I'm not sure, but stay here, okay? I'll check it out," Ethan replied, his protective instincts igniting as he stepped into the darkness. Each heartbeat thundered in his chest, the night swallowing him whole.

Lia stayed frozen, her pulse racing as anxiety clawed at her. Each snap and rustle outside intensified her dread. "Why is he taking so long?" she murmured, her thoughts spiraling. "Did something happen to him?"

After what felt like an eternity, Ethan finally returned. The moonlight washed over him, casting a gentle glow on his face, which softened at the sight of her. A shy smile flickered on his lips. "I'm back," he announced quietly as he stepped into the shelter.

Relief surged through Lia as she released a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. "What happened? Did you see anything? Why did it take so long?"

Ethan shook his head, a hint of amusement breaking through the tension. "Nothing. Just a few animals. But I found something for you." He held out a small bundle of wildflowers, their vibrant colors almost glowing against the darkness. "For you. I thought it might cheer you up."

Lia's heart fluttered as she accepted the flowers, her fingers grazing his. A warmth spread through her skin, and she felt a rush of emotions. "What's this?" she asked, intrigued.

"Um, wildflowers," Ethan chuckled softly, his cheeks tinged with a hint of pink. "A lot has happened since we got on that yacht and boat. I just wanted to lighten your mood."

She stole a glance at him before returning her gaze to the flowers. She arranged them carefully, removing the extra leaves, a smile blooming on her face. "Thank you, Ethan. They're beautiful."

"I just thought it might help," he murmured, his voice a blend of modesty and earnestness. "It's not much, but..."

"No, it's perfect," Lia interjected, warmth radiating from her as she lifted the flowers to her nose, savoring their delicate fragrance. "You're so sweet."

Ethan shrugged, trying to downplay his gesture, though a shy grin betrayed his pride. "I just wanted to see you smile."

Lia leaned closer, planting a gentle kiss on his cheek. "Mission accomplished," she muttered, heart pumping.

Ethan turned to her, surprise flickering in his eyes. Lia quickly averted her gaze, feeling a blush creep into her cheeks. "Sorry, I was just taken aback," she stammered, nervously biting her lower lip, momentarily forgetting he wasn't Lucas.

His heart skipped a beat at her touch, his smile broadening. "We should probably get some rest," he suggested, though he lingered a moment longer, reluctant to break the connection.

"Yeah, we should," Lia nodded, continuing to play with the wildflower petals, her mind racing with thoughts of their fragile yet blossoming bond.

As they settled in, the night felt a touch less daunting. Lia held the flowers close, a gentle reminder of Ethan's thoughtfulness and the growing connection between them. Despite the danger and uncertainty, her heart was warm, reminding her of the beauty and generosity in their world.

"You mean a lot to me," Ethan murmured as they lay side by side, the shadows dancing around them.

"What?" Lia asked softly, pretending not to have heard. Ethan fell silent, leaving her to wrestle with her thoughts. Don't get too carried away, Lia. He's not Lucas.