Lucas left Aurelia in the kitchen. Brady and Hazel had returned from their break and immediately engaged her in conversation. Though Lucas was certain they sensed something was wrong, they pretended not to notice, as if it were perfectly normal to find an emotional alpha’s daughter crying in their kitchen.
Celia walked him into the dining room, assuring him she would stay with Aurelia and make sure she was alright. His heart warmed at her words. He loved her gentle, compassionate heart.
He swept her into a tight hug, pressing his lips to her forehead. “Thank you,” he breathed against her skin.
She tipped her head up, kissing him softly. “Thank you for telling him no. For refusing to bend to your father.”
He pressed his forehead to hers. “I won’t. I promised you I’m staying with you thi
