HERS TO PROTECT

Chapter 31

Love Hurts

No one answered when Lia knocked on Lucas's door, and she assumed he was asleep. After cautiously opening the doorknob, she saw the dimly lit and emergency light on the wall.

She entered the room with a racing heart, attempting to disguise her anxiety. What if something was wrong? The air seemed heavy with unsaid tension as she moved in. The silence enveloped her, punctuated only by the distant sound of the shower running.

I thought he'd be asleep, She thought as she used her tiny binoculars to survey the villa's perimeter for threats. She needed to ensure his safety. After a moment, satisfied with her inspection, she checked the window lock and drew the curtains shut, deepening the shadows around her.

As she turned to leave, her gaze fell on Lucas's blood-stained clothes strewn across the floor. Inhaling deeply, she whispered to herself, He's okay. He needs time.

But just as she reached for the doorknob, Lucas emerged from the bathroom, wrapped in a towel, steam billowing around and obscuring his figure. Time seemed to freeze as their eyes locked, an electric moment passing between them.

Lucas stood still in the doorway, his damp hair clinging to his forehead, water droplets glistening as they traced paths down his chest. Lia's heart hammered in her ears, reminding her of their connection.

Awkwardly, they both looked away, breaking the spell. "Sorry," Lia mumbled, her gaze dropping. "I was checking the room's security. I was about to leave."

She reached for the door, but Lucas's hand gently stopped her. "Wait," he said softly, gripping her wrist. "Your wound..."

"I'm okay," Lia replied, trying to pull away. "I took care of it."

His eyes darkened with concern. "No, you're not." He led her to the bed, gesturing for her to sit. "Let me see."

"I'm fine," she insisted, meeting his gaze defiantly.

But Lucas remained resolute. "Lieutenant," he said firmly, easing his grip but still holding her wrist as if to anchor her.

Sighing, Lia relented, nodding reluctantly. "Okay, but don't overdo it."

Lucas retrieved the first-aid kit and carefully began unwrapping her bandaged arm. "Why didn't you tell me it was this bad?" he asked, frustration and worry mingling in his tone.

"It's just a cut," Lia averted her gaze, her heart heavy with unspoken truths. "I'm used to it."

He shook his head, tenderly cleaning and rebandaging her wound. "You don't always need to be strong, Lieutenant," he said softly, his voice laced with empathy. "Especially with this. I'm here to help."

Her pulse raced as he worked due to his proximity and intimacy. She could feel his warmth radiating, the scent of his shampoo mingling with the steam. His hands were firm yet gentle against her skin, sending shivers down her spine.

"Hold still," Lucas murmured, his voice dropping to a near whisper. "I don't want to hurt you."

Lia nodded, though a pang of emotion tightened in her chest. You already have it, Lucas. I was hurt. She struggled to keep her feelings in check, aware of the charged silence enveloping them.

Once he finished, Lucas leaned back, meeting her eyes. "There. That should help prevent infection. I'll apply more antiseptic tomorrow to speed up healing, but it will likely scar."

Lia smirked, attempting to lighten the mood. "Scars are nothing new to me. I seem to collect them everywhere, especially when we're trapped on the island, and your annoying disguise of almonds nearly killed me."