After their workout, both Lucas and Sophia felt the sticky discomfort of sweat clinging to their skin. Without needing to say a word, they both knew exactly what they wanted: a refreshing shower to wash away the day.
Once she was clean and feeling rejuvenated, Sophia decided to take a leisurely stroll around the sprawling mansion. She was still getting used to the sheer size and elegance of the place. As she wandered down a long hallway, her eyes caught sight of a door that was slightly ajar. Curiosity piqued, she gently pushed it open.
Inside, she found herself in what could only be described as a bibliophile's dream. The room was a grand study, complete with an impressive desk and chair set that looked like it belonged to a scholar of the highest caliber. The walls were lined with shelves, each one filled to the brim with books—world literature, classics, modern masterpieces, and rare editions. It was like stepping into a meticulously crafted replica of a national library, with an atmosphere of quiet reverence for the written word.
Sophia's eyes widened in awe as she slowly stepped into the room, letting her fingers trace the spines of the books as she walked past. She could hardly believe the sheer volume and variety of titles housed here. It was a side of Lucas she hadn't fully known about, and the discovery filled her with a mix of admiration and intrigue.
She was just about to pull out a particularly old-looking tome for a closer look when she heard Lucas's voice from the hallway, breaking the quiet spell of the study.
"Sophia?" he called out, his voice warm and relaxed. "I was thinking... how about we hit the night market tonight? It's been a while since we've done something spontaneous like that."
Sophia quickly replaced the book, a small smile playing on her lips as she turned to face the doorway. "That sounds like a great idea," she replied, walking out of the study to join him. As she closed the door behind her, she couldn't help but feel a little thrill at the discovery she'd just made.
As they started heading towards the front of the house, Lucas noticed the look of amusement on her face. "What's got you smiling like that?" he asked, his tone light and teasing.
Sophia glanced at him, a playful glint in her eyes. "Oh, nothing," she said, trying to keep her tone casual. "I just happened to stumble upon your study. I didn't know you were such a lover of books. It's impressive."
Lucas chuckled, a bit sheepish as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Yeah, it's a bit of a passion of mine. I guess you could say it's my escape from everything else. Whenever things get too hectic, I like to lose myself in a good book."
Sophia nodded, her admiration for him growing even more. "I can see that. Your study is like a mini-library. Or maybe not so mini... more like a hidden treasure trove."
Lucas smiled at her words, clearly pleased that she appreciated it. "It's one of my favorite places in the house. Maybe one day, we can spend some time in there together. I'd love to share some of my favorite reads with you."
Sophia's smile widened, the idea of them curled up in that grand study with books and conversation appealing more than she would have expected. "I'd like that," she said softly, feeling a warmth in her chest at the thought.
As they reached the door, ready to head out to the night market, Lucas gently took her hand. "But for tonight, let's focus on enjoying some fresh air, street food, and maybe even a few spontaneous purchases," he said with a grin.
Sophia laughed, squeezing his hand. "Deal. But I'm holding you to that library date."
"Promise," Lucas replied, his eyes twinkling as they stepped out into the night, ready to enjoy the evening together.