After a few more minutes had passed…
"Calmed down?"
Lucian asked softly, looking down at Lia, who was still clutching tightly to the sleeves of his suit while burying her face against his chest, showing no intention of letting go anytime soon.
The strange smile on her face had long since vanished, though the atmosphere around her was clearly a bit different from before… and most of all, she wasn't self-loathing anymore.
Though her ears were still warm, partially hidden beneath her black-crimson hair.
Lucian's arm rested protectively around her lower back, holding her gently, while his other hand patted her in slow, gentle motions, helping her calm down.
"Hm…"
A muffled hum escaped Lia as she gave a tiny nod without lifting her face.
She still hadn't completely recovered. Her thoughts were still occupied by everything Lucian had told her.
