"Why is it so damn noisy in my hospital room?"
A weak yet unmistakably teasing male voice suddenly broke through the chatter.
Xenia froze for a split second before whipping around, eyes wide with shock and overwhelming joy. Tears welled up instantly.
"Lucas! You're awake!" she cried, rushing to the bedside as if afraid he'd disappear the moment she blinked.
Lucas managed a faint smile, his movements sluggish as he struggled to lift a hand and gently pat Xenia's head. The touch was featherlight, but the warmth behind it was unmistakable.
"I knew it, Xenia. You're crying again," he murmured, his voice laced with both fondness and exhaustion.
"I'm still here, so don't cry," he reassured her, wanting to lighten the mood. "I can move everything just fine, and I even caught wind of Mr. Sha
