HERS TO PROTECT

Chapter 28

Forgotten Mind, Uncontainable Heart

Lucas lay awake, the cool night air brushing against his skin as he contemplated Lia's previous actions. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting soft shadows that danced across the room, and the memory of her touch lingered like a bittersweet torment in his mind.

Why is this happening? Frustration clawed at him, intensifying with each passing second. He turned onto his side, gazing at the moonlit sky, where clouds drifted lazily. He imagined Lia's bright smile, charming laughter, and sparkling eyes as she talked.

"I know this is wrong," he muttered, smoothing his tangled hair. "But I can't forget her."

A heavy sigh escaped his lips, the ache in his chest a constant reminder of the love he felt yet couldn't fully grasp. What if she's right? What if I loved her before? The thought was a double-edged sword—both terrifying and exhilarating. He had fought against the possibility, convinced himself it was impossible, yet here he was, haunted by the very idea.

She thinks I can remember our love. But what if I can't? What if this is all just... nothing? He shook his head to cleanse his mind of emotions. He needed answers and clarity, but all he had were more questions.

Maybe I should give in and let myself feel... The notion was hazardous, but he couldn't resist it anymore.

"Tomorrow," he whispered, a hint of resolve creeping into his voice. "Tomorrow, I'll figure it out." Lucas knew he may never find the answers. His attraction to Lia was evident even without memories.

Suddenly, a noise from the living room startled him. As he opened the door, his breath hitched at the sight of Lia. Her face was flushed, and the scent of alcohol clung to her like a shroud.

Is she drunk? He approached with emotions, uncertain of what to anticipate.

Before he could speak, Lia turned to him, her eyes locking onto his with a fierce intensity that quickened his heartbeat. Without hesitation, she closed the distance between them and kissed him passionately.

What is she doing? Lucas's mind raced as he felt her hands on his chest, pushing him back into the room. Her lips were warm against his, a touch that felt both familiar and foreign.

"Lia," he managed to murmur against her lips, his hands hovering uncertainly before settling on her waist.

She pulled away slightly, breathless, her voice husky with emotion. "Lucas," she whispered. "I need you to remember."

Lucas's head spun with confusion and desire. Her proximity, seductive perfume, and urgent hunger moved him.

I want her. I want her, his mind chanted, drowning out his doubts.

"Lia," he said again, his voice more insistent. "What are you doing?"

Her eyes searched his face, pleading yet resolute. "I'm trying to make you remember," she confessed softly. "I can't lose you again."

Lucas's chest tingled with something he couldn't fathom at her words. He wanted to push her away, to demand answers, but her lips found him again in a desperate plea.

What is this feeling? Torn between confusion and longing, Lucas knew he should resist. This was too fast, too uncertain. Yet her touch—her need for him—pulled at something deep within his heart.

As Lia kissed him with a fervor that matched her desperation, Lucas surrendered to the moment. His hands cradled her face, his mind quieting in the face of overwhelming sensation.