#Chapter 117 – Plans Develop

I watch in complete awe as Lucy says the words – so similar to the ones that Nico said yesterday, her eyes locked on Christian’s. She promises him her fealty, her life in his service. Swears never to betray him, begs God to strike her down if she should. The room is completely silent and solemn as Lucy speaks, as if we’re all watching some great ritual. And honestly, a little shiver passes through me as she finishes, as she calls Christian her Don, and then falls silent. Christian takes his hand from Lucy’s and brushes it gently over her hair and then around her head to cup her cheek – he doesn’t smack her, like he did Nico yesterday. But still, the paternal gesture is very clear. “I accept, Lucy,” he says quietly. “And in return, I offer you my protection.” He sits back then, and I have the most ridiculous impulse to applaud – But my eyes catch on Frankie, who I find watching me with a little smirk on his face, and I scowl and resist. His smirk widens into a grin. “So?” Christian