Lucien slapped his forehead in frustration. "I can take care of myself. I am a soldier, after all. But I cannot focus if you are with me."
"Mm?" she blinked. Lucien cleared his throat, rubbing his neck shyly. "I mean, I don't want to worry about you either. We don't know who these people are; they could be dangerous. So, I have to go alone."
He let go of her arm. "I will be careful, I promise."
Levina was not satisfied with his explanation, but he was right. She did not want to be in the way in case of any threat. She nodded.
"Just take a peek and come right back, okay?" He nodded and slid away. His heart thumped in his chest as he carefully picked his way toward the clearing, and the dry leaves rustled under his feet.
