"Get out," Lucas ordered. Doctor Mary and the attendants who had been fussing over Ava hesitated for a second before scattering.
Ava watched him as he stood at the door, not moving, just staring at her. He was taking her in, absorbing every little detail.
She wanted to reach for him, to tell him she was okay, but before she could say anything, he moved. Not in his usual confident, powerful stride, but with small, hesitant steps. As if he wasn't sure he was allowed to get closer. And then, without a word, he slid into bed beside her, wrapping his arms around her.
Ava melted into him, letting his warmth surround her. There were no words, no need for explanations. Their bodies fit together seamlessly, his arms firm but gentle, as if he wanted to hold her tighter but was afraid she might break. She could feel his heartbeat pounding against her chest, faster than usual, his breath uneven as he buried his face in her neck, inhaling her scent.
