บท 417: Close Encounters

Ella fell completely into Luke's arms. 

The soft curve of her waist sent a flush rushing to Luke's face, turning it a bright red. Despite his age, this was perhaps the first time he had been so physically close to a woman. 

Having spent most of his life at Lucas's side, Luke had inherited many of his habits. He rarely interacted with women and would deliberately avoid those who showed interest in him. 

The idea of arranged dates was even more unappealing to him. He yearned for a romantic, serendipitous connection, not a transactional exchange of details over a formal meeting. 

"What's wrong?" Luke asked, alarmed as he noticed Ella's tense expression. Could pregnant women really be this fragile? 

"Let her go, now!" came Eric's sharp, commanding voice as he strode over and quickly took Ella from Luke's arms.