Chapter 51: The Caregiver's Touch
Janet was finally discharged from the hospital after a few days of recovery. Though the scar near her ear still throbbed, her body felt stronger. Luca had arranged for a quiet return, without alerting anyone to her presence. Her existence was still a secret the world didn't know, hidden carefully in the shadows of his mansion.
That evening, the atmosphere in the house was calm. The soft lights were dimmed, casting a gentle glow across the room. Luca was lying on the living room sofa, his arm resting behind his head, his body exhausted. He wasn't entirely asleep—just caught somewhere between rest and alertness, as if even in slumber he was guarding her.
Janet walked slowly into the room, holding a small white box in her hand—a first aid kit. Her heart beat quietly, her feet light on the wooden floor. She paused near the sofa, watching him, her mind replaying everything he had done. Through the fear, pain, and darkness, he had been the only one who stood by her side. Her silent protector.
She knelt beside him and dipped a piece of cotton in antiseptic. With utmost gentleness, she tapped it against a cut near his forehead, one of the many marks he had received while fighting for her.
Luca stirred.
In an instant, his eyes opened. His instincts kicked in and before she could react, he had grabbed her wrists and pinned her down on the sofa. Their bodies close. His breath shallow.
"You know that I can't resist you," he whispered, voice low, almost trembling.
Janet's eyes widened. Her heart pounded violently in her chest, but she said nothing.
His gaze dropped to her lips, and without another word, he leaned in and kissed her. Deep, slow, and intense. Her lips parted slightly, and she didn't push him away. It was unexpected, overwhelming, and yet she didn't stop him.
His lips moved to her neck, placing tender kisses. Her breath hitched. Still, no words came from her. The quiet room was filled with nothing but the sound of their heartbeats.