His hands moved quickly, catching her before she could slip, his fingers gentle yet firm, as if afraid she might get hurt.
When his eyes landed on the kitten...a soft smile spread across his face.
"You're back?" he murmured, his voice low and warm. "Where did you go…? You haven't come to see me for so long."
Lana tilted her tiny head, confusion flickering in her bright eyes.
'Why… does he feel different?'
There was something in his tone... something softer, more attentive… more affectionate than before.
Her small pink tongue slipped out unconsciously as she leaned forward, licking his fingers.
His skin was cool and smooth, almost like polished jade. She nibbled lightly at them, unable to stop herself.
Lucian didn't pull away.
Instead, he simply watched her, his gaze gentle and indulgent, as if whatever she did were perfectly acceptable.
'Let her do as she pleases …'
A fleeting thought crossed his mind, one he didn't allow himself to complete.
