"You know that's what the bad guy always says in every horror movie before he beheads someone," Jason quipped, his smile sharp as we approached the doorway.
Lucian chuckled, his dark eyes glinting with amusement. "You'd know all about bad guys, wouldn't you, Jason?"
I glanced between them, the tension palpable but oddly playful.
Lucian turned his attention to me, his expression softening as he extended his hand. "Kiara," he said warmly.
I hesitated for a second before placing my hand in his. His grip was firm but surprisingly gentle as he helped me up the steps.
Jason scoffed behind me, muttering, "How poignant."
I barely resisted rolling my eyes. "Jealous much?"
"Of course not," Jason replied, his tone dripping with sarcasm as he climbed the steps two at a time, standing beside me as if staking a claim.
Lucian ignored him entirely, gesturing for us to step inside.