Chapter 103

His touch roused Alice from her slumber. As Alice stirred, blinking sleepily, she found herself met with Lucas's concerned gaze. "Hey, you're back," she murmured, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Lucas nodded, his expression softening as he brushed a stray lock of hair from her face. "I'm sorry I woke you," he said, his voice tinged with remorse. Alice smiled gently, reaching out to grasp his hand. "I'm fine," she assured him, her eyes searching his for reassurance. "I was waiting for you." Lucas's heart swelled at her words, a mixture of relief and affection flooding his chest. Lucas shook his head. "No, I was too caught up with work," he lied, masking the turmoil within him. His mind was in disarray, and he had no appetite. Alice's expression softened with concern. "Let me heat dinner for you," she offered, already rising from the sofa. Lucas reached out to stop her. "You don't have to," he insisted, but Alice waved off his protest. "I want to," she replied firmly, determination shin