Alina's pov
Lucian's warm hands wrapped tightly around my waist, showing absolutely zero intention of letting me go.
I let out a soft chuckle, placing my hands over his. "Lucian, you need to let go. I really need to get to the bakery shop to check on how things are running today."
"Can't you just stay home today?" he murmured against my skin, his grip tightening just a fraction. "Stay with me."
"I would honestly love to stay," I said, turning slightly in his arms to look up at him, "but I really can't. I have so much work to oversee, and I absolutely need to go."
Lucian pouted his lips like a stubborn child, letting out a heavy, dramatic sigh before his hands finally slipped from my waist. "Fine."
"I will be back before you know it, okay?"
"I can drop you off," he offered immediately, already reaching for his car keys on the counter.
"No, it's fine. I can easily go on my own," I declined softly. "Besides, I already ordered a ride, and I think he's actually right outside."
