Chapter 84

Lucas loosens his hold as we near the edge of the forest clearing, finally setting me down a few feet from the mouth of the creek. The moment my feet touch the soft earth, I spin around, unable to stop the wide grin that breaks across my face. The world around me is alive—sunlight filters through the canopy in golden slants, birdsong echoes high in the trees, blending harmoniously with the gentle rush of water nearby.
“You like it,” Lucas says quietly, his voice carrying a warmth that rivals the sun above.
“Stop reading my mind,” I reply with a pout, though the smile refuses to leave my lips.