HERS TO PROTECT

Chapter 33

Rediscovering Themselves

Lucas sat alone in the serene villa, consumed by thoughts of Lia. Restlessly pacing the room, his anxiety mounted with every minute she remained hospitalized. Her absence left a void he couldn't fill, making him yearn for her cheerful conversations and gentle gestures.

"What is this feeling?" Lucas wondered, running a hand through his hair in frustration. Why did he feel this way? The empty couch, where they had shared countless evenings, now seemed lifeless—void of her laughter and warmth.

"Lucas, focus," he muttered, trying to shake off the unsettling emotions. But no matter how hard he tried, Lia's smile, soulful eyes, and the softness of her touch lingered in his memory.

"She's just a woman," he reasoned, though deep down, he knew that was a lie. Lia had become so much more than that. He couldn't picture life without her. He recalled their night under the stars, her head resting on his shoulder, her voice calming him amidst the chaos.

"Why now?" he whispered, his voice cracking with emotion. "Why am I realizing this now?"

He stopped pacing and collapsed onto the sofa, burying his face in his hands. Frustration and powerlessness surged through him. Despite the fragmented memories of her, the feelings were undeniable. She had touched something deep within him, awakening emotions he didn't know existed.

"Lucas..." Her voice seemed to whisper in his mind, soft and tender. "What do you feel?"

"I feel... lost without you," he admitted. "I don't know what to do." He lifted his head, staring at the empty room, the weight of loneliness settling in. "I need you, Lia. I need to find you... and I need to find myself."

Just then, Jake entered the room, concern etched on his face. "Captain," he said, "Major Ocampo just called. Lieutenant Santos is doing fine. You don't need to worry."

Lucas's shoulders relaxed slightly at the news, but worry still lingered in his eyes. "When will she be back?" he asked, desperation creeping into his tone. He needed to see her.

Jake hesitated. "Major Ocampo won't be returning. Lt. Santos will stay at the hospital for another day. Staff Sergeant Hidalgo will accompany her."

The mention of Kevin's name made Lucas tense. Jealousy bubbled up at the thought of Lia with him.

"Why Hidalgo?" Lucas's voice was tight with frustration. "Can't someone else watch over her?"

"Captain," Jake said calmly, "Staff Sergeant Hidalgo is with her now. There's no other choice. He's just looking out for her."

Lucas clenched his fists, trying to contain his jealousy. He knew Jake was right, but it didn't make it easier. "Okay... I'm just worried. If Major Ocampo leaves, Lia needs someone who can protect her."

"Staff Sergeant Hidalgo can do it," Jake assured him. "And besides, Captain, it's not Lieutenant Santos who needs protection; it's you."

Lucas nodded, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Yeah, I forgot."

Jake returned the nod, understanding the weight of the moment. "We can visit the hospital tomorrow. For now, try to get some rest. If you're in this state, you won't be able to help her."

Lucas nodded reluctantly. "Thanks, Staff Sergeant. I'll try."

As Jake left, Lucas slumped on the sofa, his thoughts racing. Without Lia, he felt lost. His only hope was that she would return soon, safe and sound. Leaning back, he closed his eyes, seeking peace. But thoughts of Lia persisted—her smile, her laughter; she completed him.