CHAPTER 39 It Was All a Deception

  Lucas had his hands in his pockets. When the woman addressed him as "Mr. Reid," he turned to her with a serious expression. She clutched her belly, her face slightly contorted in discomfort. Lucas spoke, though I couldn't hear what he said. I saw him help her to an empty seat in the waiting area, then hand her a bottle of water.  

  He wasn't far from me, but from start to finish, he didn't notice I was there.  

  Watching this scene unfold, I felt my heart shatter. The warmth, protection, and tenderness I had experienced recently suddenly seemed like nothing more than a lie.  

  To me, Lucas had always been a man of integrity and responsibility. Had I been blind again?  

  It seemed as if Lucas sensed something, as he abruptly turned in my direction. Panicked, I stepped back into the corner, hiding from his gaze. When I dared to peek out again, his attention had already returned elsewhere.