Lucas had risen to his feet, smoothing out his robe and preparing himself to return to his chamber for the night when Nyx's voice, soft and pleading, stopped him in his tracks.
"Don't go yet," she said, her eyes following him as if afraid he would vanish through the door. "Stay a little longer. Please."
He hesitated, glancing back at her, and the sincerity in her gaze melted his resistance. Slowly, he nodded, a small smile forming on his lips. "Very well. A little longer," he replied, moving back toward the bed.
Nyx's face brightened at once. She reached for his hand, guiding him down beside her again. Without a word, she shifted, resting her head gently across his lap. Lucas looked down at her, surprised but not displeased. His fingers, almost instinctively, began to brush through her hair before settling on her forehead. He rubbed it softly, tracing small circles with his thumb, the kind of touch that carried no pressure, only comfort.
