caughed!????

71

I rolled my eyes at Lucas's greeting, a habit when interacting with my former lover. While our history remained, my heart now belonged to Damien. Thankfully Mr. Watson had departed, sparing me further awkwardness.

"And what the situation at the gym?" I asked concerned.

"The situation is under control, most patients moved to the gym for now," Lucas replied to my inquiry. I detected a hint of weariness in his tone; tending to the aftermath must have drained him.

"And Damien?" I pressed, concern for my fiancé overriding other matters.

Lucas sighed. "I left him overseeing cleanup but he was in a foul mood, snapping at anyone within earshot. Didn't seem like he'd be home anytime soon."

My shoulders slumped at the news. The stress of the day still clung to me like a shroud, and I longed for Damien's comforting embrace. But his duties came first, as always.

"And you?" Lucas asked gently, gazing at me with a tenderness that still stirred emotion, despite my resolve. "How are you holdin