Chapter 715: Acted on Reflex

Terrified by Lucian's sudden movement, Roxanne froze, reacting like a petrified cat as he approached. She struggled desperately to break free, but he effortlessly seized her hands, pinning them behind her back. Her efforts were futile.

"Wake up, Lucian!" Panic filled her eyes as their lips drew near, her voice tight with fear. He remained unresponsive, continuing his advance. Only when their breaths mingled, and Roxanne's heart pounded wildly, did he finally stop.

Relieved, she cautiously turned, studying his expression to see if he'd awakened. Their eyes met.

"Sorry," Lucian said, masking a smile with an apologetic expression. "I was still half-awake." He released her hands, allowing her to leave his embrace. He'd wanted to tease her further, but her reaction made him reconsider. Before she could scold him, he'd already apologized. For a moment, her expression was frozen, indecision warring within her.

Stunned, she finally realized she should leave his arms. Biting her lip, she lowered her eyes, preparing to stand. However, her apprehension and prolonged restraint had left her legs numb. As she attempted to rise, she swayed and fell back into Lucian's arms.

A delighted surprise for him, Lucian calmly received her.

"How dare you!" Roxanne struggled, glaring at his nonchalant expression. She wanted to reprimand him, but hesitated; she'd fallen, and had initiated the encounter. She anticipated his counter-arguments and, frustrated, lowered her eyes, zipping her mouth shut. She carefully rose, steadying herself against the couch, her mind racing to forget the incident.

"I haven't slept well these past two days. I finally fell into a deep sleep, so I likely acted on reflex when you touched me unexpectedly. I'm sorry," Lucian said lightly.

His explanation lessened her anger. He was essentially dismissing his actions by claiming she'd disturbed his sleep.

They stared at each other before Lucian, in a good mood, decided to spare her further. Raising an eyebrow, he asked, "So, why did you approach me, Ms. Jarvis?"

Still inwardly irate, Roxanne's tone was sharp. "Essie asked me to help treat your insomnia. But seeing you sleep so soundly, I don't think it's necessary anymore."

She turned to leave, wanting no more of his presence. She walked away, but his silence struck her as odd. A puzzled glance over her shoulder revealed his dark gaze. Their eyes locked, her heart lurching. She turned and went to the backyard without looking back.