As Lucas helped her to her feet, Emily felt the room spin. She stumbled, but his strong arms caught her, steadying her against his chest. The familiar scent of his cologne enveloped her, and she found herself nuzzling into him, seeking comfort.
"You can't be serious," Ryan's voice cut through the moment, dripping with disgust. "Dad, she's half your age!"
Emily felt Lucas tense, but his voice remained calm. "This isn't the time or place, Ryan."
As they moved towards the exit, Emily's thoughts raced. What the f**k had her life become? How had she ended up in this absurd situation? But even as the questions swirled, one thing remained crystal clear - the feeling of rightness in Lucas' arms.
"f**k off, Ryan," she mumbled as they passed him, her filter completely gone. "You lost any right t
