FIFTY SEVEN

Vincent sighed, trying to put on a brave face. “It's nothing, Monica. Just business stuff.”

Monica narrowed her eyes, sensing he wasn't telling the entire truth. “Are you sure?”

He sighed, “It's just a call from Lucas' associates, nothing to worry about.”

Monica looked at him skeptically but decided not to press further. She leaned against him, her worry still evident , “You can tell me if you’re bothered you know.”

Vincent nodded, holding her close. “I know Monica, don't worry about this, trust me.”

……🌵

A few days later, Olivia was absorbed from the hospital, Lucas walked beside her, guide her through the hospital corridor, he wore a casual black shorts and a white T-shirt.

Olivia, looking fragile but still radiant, dressed in a silk lavender dress that flowed gently around her as she walked, paired with comfortable flats.

As they walked through the corridor, Lucas kept his arm securely around her waist. Despite her reassurances , he was determined to treat her with utmost care.

“Lucas, I’m strong enough now.” Olivia chuckled softly, glancing up at him.

Lucas ignored her words, without warning , he carefully lifted her off her feet. Olivia gasped in surprise , her eyes wide as wrapped her arms around his neck for support.

“Lucas, you don't have to carry me!” She exclaimed, though her smile showed she was touched by his gesture.

“I do,” he replied firmly, his voice gentle, yet authoritative . “You’re my queen and I'll always take care of you.”

Olivia felt butterflies in her stomach,at his words. She snuggled closer to him, as Lucas lifted her into the waiting car.He gently placed her in the passenger’s seat, ensuring she was secured and safe before closing the door.

As he walked over to the driver’s side, Olivia couldn't help but admire his strong, confident aura. He got in and ignited the engine , he began driving back to the private villa.

“I didn't expect to be carried out like that,” Olivia said, with a light laugh turning to look at him.

Lucas glanced at her, his eyes softening. “Just to let you know how much you mean to me. Besides, you deserve to be treated like a queen.”

Olivia reached out, placing her hand over his, on the gear shift. “I feel like queen with you, Lucas. But I also want to be strong for you, not just someone you have to protect.”

Lucas squeezed her hand gently, his gaze returning to the road. “We’re strong together Olivia. You give me strength too. But right now, I need to make sure you're safe and well.”

She smiled, leaning back on her seat, “Alright, Mr Moretti, I’ll take care of me this time.”

He chuckled, a rear sound that made her heart skipped a beat, “Good,Now let's get you home.”

As they drove, the conversation flowed easily, files with light banter and shared glances . The tension of the past days seemed to melt away with each passing mile.

When they arrived at the villa, Lucas lend her a hand out of the car, carrying her once more, despite her squabble. He carried her inside, and placed her gently on a plush sofa in the living room and kissed her forehead lightly.

“Welcome back,” he whispered.

Olivia looked at him, her eyes shining with love. “It feels like home with you, Lucas.”

Olivia cuddled close to Lucas, and he wraaped his arm around her, lost in each other's embrace. After a moment of comfortable silence, Lucas looked into Olivia's eyes , lifting her chin gently, his expression softening even more. “I’ve been thinking pretty doll,” he said softly , “despite everything , let's continue our vacation.” he said firmly. “I believe everything is settled for now. We deserve this time together.”

Olivia looked up at him, “Are you sure about this..” She asked, even though deep in her heart she really wanted to continue the vacation.

Lucas nodded, holding her hands.

Olivia smiled, a mix of relief and excitement, “I’d like that, Lucas . We both need it.”

The coming days were memorable, Lucas took Olivia on a tour to some of the most beautiful places in Russia, he ensured each moment was unforgettable. They explored the lively streets of Moscow, walked hand in hand through Red Square.

When they strolled past Saint Basil's Cathedral ,Olivia's eyes widened with wonder at the magnificence of the building, she turned to Lucas, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. “Let's go inside and pray.” she said excitedly.

Lucas looked at her, genuinely surprised, “Pray? Olivia I don't pray, I don't even know how to.”

She tugged at his arm playfully. “Come on, Lucas. Just kneel in front of the altar and say your wish. It doesn't have to be formal.”

Lucas hesitated, shaking his head. “Pretty doll I'm not sure about this, It's really not my thing.”

Olivia's eyes softened, as she reached up to touch his cheek. “Please, Lucas. For me. It's important.”

He sighed, unable to resist her plea, “Alright,” he said reluctantly , “but don't laugh if I mess it up.”

Olivia beamed, holding him by his arm, and ushered him inside the cathedral. The interior was stunning, infused with intricate frescoes and a serene atmosphere that seemed to call for reverence.

They approached the altar , and Olivia knelt down gracefully , motioning for Lucas to do the same. He glanced around awkwardly before finally kneeling beside her.

“Just close your eyes , and speak from your heart,” Olivia whispered , her voice barely audible.

Even though he wasn't sure on what to do, He closed his eyes feeling a bit foolish, but intent on doing this for her. He inhaled deely, his mind racing with thoughts of what had happened the previous days .

“I …I wish for Olivia's happiness and safety,” he whispered, his voice unsteady. “I wish for a future where we can be together.”

Beside him, Olivia smiled , touched by his sincerity. She reached over and squeezed his hand, silently praying the same.

After a few moments, Lucas opened his eyes , looking at Olivia with a mix of vulnerability and determination. “Was that okay?” He asked, his voice a bit shaky.

Olivia nodded, her eyes gleaming with unshed tears, “That was perfect Lucas, Thank you.”

He helped her to her feet, pulling her into a gentle embrace. “I’d do anything for you Olivia, even if it means learning how to pray.”

They shared a calm, unspoken moment , the glory of the cathedral vanishing into the background. For Lucas, this was a new experience, one that made him feel closer to Olivia than ever before.

As they left the cathedral hand in hand , Lucas glanced back at the altar. Maybe he didn't know how to pray in the traditional sense, but he realized that his wishes and hopes were as powerful as any prayer..

“Thank you for making me do that,” he said softly, squeezing Olivia's hand, “I think it helped.”