HERS TO PROTECT

Chapter 23

The Weight of Secrets

Despite the warm evening outside, the room felt icy cold to Lia. She sat on the edge of her bed, her hands trembling as she absorbed the devastating truth about Lucas's past and his covert mission to expose corruption within the Marsden empire. How could he have hidden this from her? A storm of emotions churned inside her—anger at his deceit, betrayal for being kept in the dark, fear for his safety, and an unshakable sense of duty.

"Does he not trust me?" she thought, hurt gnawing at her. Yet beneath the anger and pain, a fierce determination took root. She refused to let Lucas face this peril alone. She was resolved to approach Major Ocampo and insist on being part of the plan as they were lifelong companions.

Lia found Major Ocampo deep in concentration in the command center, his stern demeanor etched into sharp lines as he pored over maps and documents. She hesitated at the doorway, gathering her thoughts. Doubt flickered—was she making the right decision? But the image of Lucas facing danger alone solidified her resolve. Taking a deep breath, she approached him with purpose.

"Major Ocampo," she began, her voice steady despite the turmoil within her. "I need to speak with you about something."

Major Ocampo looked up, his gaze narrowing slightly at the urgency in her tone. "What is it, Lieutenant?" he asked, gesturing for her to take a seat.

Lia sat down, meeting his eyes directly. "I know about Lucas's mission," she remarked, awaiting his response. Though surprise flashed briefly in his eyes, his expression remained neutral—it was almost as if he had anticipated this moment. "I can't leave him alone. I need to assist him."

Lia breathed deeply, feeling betrayal in her chest. Lucas's distrust affected her more than she wanted to acknowledge. They supported one another while the world threatened to fall apart. When it counted, he doubted her.

But still... she couldn't just walk away.

"I should be angry," she thought, clenching her fists. "He didn't trust me. He left me in the dark and went behind my back. Anyone else would say he doesn't deserve my help."

And maybe they were right. But deep down, she knew she couldn't turn her back on him now.

"It's not just about what he did," Lia reasoned, her thoughts swirling. "It's about who he is. I've seen Lucas at his best, even if he doesn't always show it. He makes mistakes, like everyone. But underneath, he's a good person—someone worth fighting for."

She closed her eyes, letting the memories of their journey flood back. Lucas's support and bravery when he didn't trust himself. She couldn't abandon him now, not when the stakes were this high.

His expression hardened. "Lia, this task is dangerous. Lucas has received specialized training to handle such situations. You have not."

"I understand, sir," Lia responded strongly. Though she felt his mistrust, she understood her skills best. "But I want to help. You know my record. I've never been a liability; I contribute more than most. You said it yourself: Lucas and I are unstoppable when we work together."

He sighed deeply, studying her face for any trace of doubt. Lia held his gaze, willing him to see her determination. She thought of all the missions she'd completed, the challenges she'd overcome. She wasn't just any soldier—she could make a difference.

"Lia, do you truly grasp the gravity of this situation? This mission could cost lives. The captain shielded you because Marsden might use you against him."

She nodded, her gaze unwavering. "I understand the risks, sir. But I joined the military to defend others and myself. I won't stand by while Lucas puts himself in danger alone. Please, Major, let me help him."