Back at home, Sophia couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions after the day's events. As they settled in, she turned to Lucas, her brow slightly furrowed with concern. "Lucas, by revealing our relationship like that, doesn't it mean that everyone in the company now knows about us? What if there's gossip? It might not be the most convenient situation."
Lucas looked at her, his expression softening as he approached her. He could see the worry in her eyes, but he was determined to ease her mind. "Sophia, there's no need to worry about that. In fact, I'd say it's better this way. Our relationship was always going to come to light sooner or later. All I've done is move the timeline up a little."
Sophia sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I understand, but… I just didn't want us to become the center of attention too soon. I don't want people to start treating me differently, either out of fear or because they want to curry favor."
Lucas nodded, understanding her concerns. "I get that, and I respect your feelings. But at the same time, I couldn't stand by and watch you be mistreated. Now that everyone knows who you are, they'll think twice before crossing you. At least, openly."
Sophia couldn't help but feel touched by his words. She knew he was right—his actions, though bold, had been driven by his desire to protect her. But there was also the undeniable truth that her life at work was going to change now. "I know you did it for me," she said softly, her voice filled with gratitude. "And I'm really thankful, Lucas. It's just… a lot to take in."
Lucas stepped closer, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her into a comforting embrace. "I didn't mean to make things more complicated for you, Sophia. But I'd rather the world know how much you mean to me than keep it hidden just to avoid some gossip. We'll handle whatever comes our way, together."
Sophia rested her head against his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. His warmth and strength made her feel safe, and she knew he was right. Whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them as a team. "I guess I just need to get used to the idea," she admitted with a small smile. "But I know you'll be there with me every step of the way."
Lucas smiled down at her, brushing a kiss across her forehead. "Always. You're not alone in this, Sophia. We're partners in every sense of the word."
Feeling reassured, Sophia tilted her head up to look at him, her eyes sparkling with a newfound determination. "Thank you, Lucas. For everything. I guess now that the cat's out of the bag, there's no point in worrying about it. We'll deal with the attention as it comes."
Lucas chuckled softly, his hands gently caressing her back. "That's the spirit. And who knows? Maybe it won't be as bad as you think. Most people will probably just be curious at first, but they'll get used to it."
Sophia nodded, her heart feeling lighter. She stood on her tiptoes, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. "You're right. We'll handle it."
Lucas deepened the kiss, his lips lingering on hers as if savoring the moment. When they finally pulled apart, his eyes were filled with a tender warmth that made Sophia's heart flutter. "Why don't we make tonight about us? We've had a long day, and I think we deserve some time to just enjoy each other's company."
Sophia smiled, a playful glint in her eyes. "That sounds perfect. What do you have in mind?"
Lucas grinned, his expression taking on a mischievous edge. "How about we start with a nice, long bath to relax? Then, I'll make us a late-night snack. We can curl up in bed, watch a movie, or just talk until we fall asleep."
Sophia's smile widened at the thought. "That sounds amazing. Let's do it."
They headed upstairs to the master bathroom, where Lucas started drawing a bath. The room was soon filled with the soothing sound of running water and the scent of lavender bath salts that Lucas added to the tub. Sophia stood by the sink, watching him as he moved about, feeling a sense of peace settle over her. Despite everything that had happened, this moment felt perfect.
When the bath was ready, Lucas helped her undress, his touch gentle and loving. They slipped into the warm water together, letting it wash away the stress of the day. Sophia leaned back against Lucas, her body relaxing into his as he wrapped his arms around her.
"This is nice," she murmured, closing her eyes as she soaked in the warmth and the feeling of being so close to him.
"It is," Lucas agreed, pressing a kiss to her shoulder. "Just you and me, away from the world for a little while."
They stayed in the bath until the water began to cool, talking quietly about anything and everything. It was the kind of intimate, unguarded conversation that deepened their connection even further.
Afterward, they dried off and slipped into comfortable clothes. Lucas led her to the kitchen, where he quickly whipped up a plate of fresh fruit, cheese, and crackers, along with a couple of glasses of wine. They took their snack to the bedroom, where they sat on the bed, sharing the food and sipping their wine.
As they enjoyed their late-night treat, Sophia looked at Lucas, her heart swelling with love. "I'm really glad we're in this together, Lucas. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Lucas reached out, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "You'd do just fine, Sophia. But I'm glad I get to be by your side. You make everything worth it."
They finished their wine and lay down, curling up together under the blankets. The night was quiet, the only sound being the gentle rustle of the sheets as they settled in.
Before long, Sophia felt herself drifting off to sleep, her body warm and relaxed in Lucas's embrace. Just before she slipped into unconsciousness, she heard Lucas's voice, soft and full of promise. "I love you, Sophia. Whatever comes, we'll face it together."
And with those words, Sophia fell into a peaceful sleep, knowing that with Lucas by her side, she could face anything the world threw at them.