My breath caught in my throat as Lucien's arm tightened around my waist. The sudden intimacy stunned me into silence. His body radiated heat against mine, solid and secure as I perched awkwardly on his lap. I turned to face him, a silent question in my eyes.

What are you doing?

Lucien's thumb began tracing slow circles on the small of my back. Each stroke sparked something molten in my belly. I shifted slightly, trying to escape the sensation, but his grip remained firm.

Lucas stared at us, ...