An Unforgiving Love

Chapter 32- New Intimacy.

As Lucas packed his belongings in his duffel bag, the CO approached him, a proud smile on his face. “Lucas, can I have a word?”

“Of course, sir,” Lucas replied, straightening up and wiping his hands on his pants.

The CO leaned against the wall, arms crossed, looking at Lucas with genuine admiration. “I just wanted to say how proud I am of you. Your work on this case was outstanding, and I admire your relationship with Bella. It’s clear you both have a strong bond.”

Lucas felt a warmth spread through him at the compliment. “Thank you, sir. That means a lot coming from you.”

“I’ve seen how you support each other,” the CO continued, nodding. “It’s not often you find that kind of partnership in this line of work. You both seem to balance your professional lives with your personal lives so well.”

Lucas chuckled, shaking his head slightly. “It’s not always easy, but we make it work. Bella’s a force to be reckoned with. She’s dedicated to her job, and I respect that.”

The CO smiled knowingly. “That dedication shows. Just remember, though, relationships require effort from both sides. Don’t take her for granted.”

“Absolutely, sir,” Lucas agreed, feeling the weight of the CO’s words. “I appreciate the reminder. I’m committed to making sure Bella knows how much she means to me.”

“Good to hear. It’s not just about the job; it’s about the people you care about. Keep nurturing that relationship, and you’ll both come out stronger for it.”

Lucas nodded, a newfound determination settling in his chest. “I will, sir. Thank you for your support. It really helps to have someone in my corner.”

“Anytime, Lucas. Keep up the great work, and take care of Bella. You’re both assets to this team.” With that, the CO clapped Lucas on the shoulder before heading off, leaving Lucas with a sense of pride and purpose as he continued packing.

Bella was deeply engrossed in her reading, the pages of her book turning slowly as she absorbed every word. She hadn’t noticed Lucas enter her room, still in his military uniform, the fabric clinging to his muscular frame. The door creaked softly behind him, and he paused for a moment, watching her, captivated by the way her brow furrowed in concentration.

He approached her quietly, not wanting to disturb her. The room was filled with a comforting silence, punctuated only by the occasional rustle of pages. As he got closer, the scent of his cologne wafted through the air, drawing Bella’s attention. She looked up, her eyes widening with delight.

“Hey,” Lucas said softly, a warm smile spreading across his face.

“Hey,” Bella replied, her heart racing at the sight of him. The way the light caught the edges of his uniform made him look even more handsome. She set her book aside, her interest now fully on him.

He moved closer, closing the distance between them. “I missed you,” he confessed, his voice low and intimate.

“I missed you too,” Bella said, her voice barely above a whisper. She could feel the heat radiating from him, and it sent a thrill through her.

Without breaking eye contact, Lucas reached out, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. His fingers lingered at the nape of her neck, sending shivers down her spine. The world outside faded away as their chemistry ignited the space between them.

He leaned in, capturing her lips with his in a soft, tender kiss. Bella melted against him, wrapping her arms around his neck as she deepened the kiss, their connection electric. Time seemed to stand still as they lost themselves in each other, the weight of the day lifting as they embraced.