Lucien raised a brow, half amused, half uncertain. He must be making that face because he's shocked to see me here, he thought.
"I know you're shocked to..." he began, but his words cut short when Ash suddenly stepped forward and wrapped him in a tight embrace.
"Thank you..." Ash murmured, his voice muffled against Lucien's shoulder.
Lucien stiffened, eyes widening. What's gotten into him? Is he thanking me just for showing up?
Ash's chest trembled with unspoken words. Now I know what kind of person you are. You've cared for me from the start. It's not fair; you've cared for me while I wasn't to you. I owe you my life...and I need to try to show you how grateful i am.
The hug lingered until Ash noticed Lucien shifting, his breath caught as though the hold was too tight. Flustered, Ash pulled back quickly, his hands dropping awkwardly to his sides.
The silence stretched, heavy with things unsaid.
