Chapter 159

159 Hopeful

Lucian

We had showered, dressed, and slipped into the easy comfort of domestic silence. But there was an underlying tension coiling in my chest-one that I hadn’t yet voiced. The trip to Neev and Goldenpeak was weighing on my mind, but I didn’t want to sour the mood too soon. Not when I wanted to spend the entire day with her.

Mara was the first to speak as she combed through her damp hair, her voice casual yet focused.

“I finished reviewing Darian’s proposal this morning while you were still asleep,” she said, glancing at me over her shoulder. “His concept is solid-clean, forward-thinking. He’s passionate, and honestly, it shows. The application could really take off. Everything’s going digital now, and if we don’t ride the wave, we’ll drown.”

I smiled faintly and nodded. I had already made up my mind to fund Darian’s venture, but hearing her say it made something warm settle in my chest. Her faith in him, in us-this future we were all trying to build-meant everything.

“I’m glad you feel that way,” I said. “I was going to support him regardless, but it’s good to know you believe in it too.”