If she didn’t go in tomorrow, Ian would be overwhelmed on his own.

There was still the matter of checking the measurements at the construction site and coordinating with Daniel.

Thinking about it all gave Aurora a headache, and for a moment she regretted agreeing to stay the night. But since she had already stayed, there was no point pretending she had another choice.

“Don’t worry, we’ll make it in time. We can even have breakfast first.”

His words surprised her.

“Why do you sound so experienced?”

Lucas chuckled, pinching her nose. “Because I’ve had to rush like this before. That’s why I know. Trust me, we won’t be late.”

“Alright then, I’ll believe you.”

Aurora found a comfortable spot and curled up in his arms. Once settled, a deep sense of peace filled her heart. She had never noticed before just how much Lucas grounded her, but now that she was used to sleeping beside him, she realized she was becoming more and more attached. Especially when they shared a bed–she always felt more secure. It was even more comforting than sleeping alone. She had once thought sleeping by herself meant freedom, but now, if she couldn’t hold Lucas, it felt unbearable.

Lucas tightened his arms around her, resting his chin on her shoulder. A soft sigh of contentment escaped him.

“Rora, stay by my side forever, alright?”

Aurora let out a playful groan. “What nonsense are you talking about now?”

“I don’t care. Just promise me first.”

She soothed him as if coaxing a child. “Fine, I promise. I’ll always stay by your side. Stop overthinking. Let’s get some sleep.”

Only after hearing her words did Lucas finally close his eyes and drift off.

The next morning, when the two of them woke, the servants had already prepared breakfast.

Aurora glanced at the clock–it was only six. Did everyone in Lucas‘ family really eat this early?

The servants, noticing her confusion, quickly explained. “Mrs. Carter, we’re only following Madam’s instructions.”

“What did Mom say?” Aurora asked curiously.

“She told us that no matter when you woke up, breakfast had to be ready right away. So, we’ve been waiting since five.”

Aurora’s eyes widened slightly. She hadn’t expected Diana to be so thoughtful, so meticulous in looking after her.

Even Lucas raised his brows at that. “Mom really is attentive.”

“Let’s make sure we visit her more often,” Aurora said softly, lowering her gaze. A lump rose in her chest. She hadn’t imagined Diana would treat her with such care–more than even her own mother ever had. But now, she was finally someone’s cherished child. Compared to before, she was already far happier.

Lucas seemed to read her thoughts. He ruffled her hair gently and said, “Don’t dwell on it. We’ll come back to visit whenever we can. Besides, Dad’s always there with her. She’ll never be lonely.”