(I wrote some steamy stuff in the last chapter, but it got held up. I wanted to wait for it to go live before posting this one so it wouldn't mess up your reading flow, but I ran out of time. If you still can't see the last chapter, just check for it in the morning.)
When she woke up the next morning, the spot beside her was already empty, leaving only a bit of lingering warmth and a crisp scent.
Josie Quinn rubbed her eyes as she sat up and realized Lucas Lockwood had already gone out.
On the dining table in the living room sat a bowl of vegetable porridge, still giving off faint wisps of steam. A note was held down beside it, written in Lucas Lockwood's strong, confident script: Cece, eat something as soon as you wake up. I have to go take care of a few things. I'll be back later. —Lucas
The simple instruction warmed Josie's heart.
She sat down and slowly finished the porridge. The warm food settled in her stomach, chasing away the last trace of the morning chill.
