Her Heart Her Terms (Lily and Xavier)

Chapter 52

Chapter 52

"Terence, drive safe,"

Terence got out of the car and opened the trunk. He took out a small box and handed it to her.

"I heard that the stones from Crownridge Peak are said to ward off bad luck. I picked up...two of them along the way, one for you and one for Maryanne."

Lily had heard that superstition before, though she didn't quite believe in it.

Still, the thoughtfulness behind Terence's gesture touched her, and she took the small box with a grateful smile.

"Tha-"

"I told you, don't be so formal with me," he interrupted.

As he stood by the car, Terence's short hair ruffled in the breeze. The light from the street lamps was reflected in his obsidian-like eyes.

Thanks to Maryanne, Lily knew she would be spending more time around Terence, and being overly formal would only make things more awkward. "Alright then. Be safe on your way home." She stepped back to stand on the steps and make way, but her foot caught on something

backward and lost her

with one arm around her waist and

and she found herself

to pain, and even the smallest bruise would leave a mark for

the fear in her

didn't notice how close they had just

at her reaction. He asked, "So, how are you planning to

and the playful atmosphere was a welcome

Rarely, Lily bantered back.

there's anything you need in the future, just say the

the only two people standing

distance, they looked like a young couple lingering

was hiding in the shadows. He then quickly sent the photos to

her way

last glance at Lily's windows. When he saw that

he noticed a shadowy figure lurking near the bushes. The figure was snapping more photos of Lily's

his car, Terence's eyes narrowed as he observed the

had only taken pictures before leaving,

home, Lily showered and went