Chapter 22- To Lucas and Me

Olivia's Pov:

As I walked into my apartment, a contented smile lingered on my lips. The events of the day replayed in my mind, each moment with Lucas etched vividly. I relished how his demeanor had softened, the way he had held me, and the tenderness that had accompanied our newfound intimacy.

Lost in my thoughts, I was startled by the sound of my ringing phone. It was my mother. I answered with a cheerful hello, trying to keep my emotions from seeping into my voice.

"Hey, sweetheart, how was your day?" my mother's warm voice flowed through the line.

"It was good, Mom," I replied, trying to sound casual.

"I can tell from your tone that something's up," she said playfully. "You sound happier than usual."

I chuckled nervously, realizing that I might be giving myself away. "Oh, well, it was just a nice day. You know, work stuff."

She laughed knowingly. "Come on, Liv, you can't fool your own mother. There's something you're not telling me."

I sighed, knowing that my mother's intuition was