*Lucas*
The moment I crossed the threshold, Mom was on me like a storm itself, her hug full of the emotions she felt for me. Her embrace was tight and unyielding as if she could somehow will away the danger we'd just escaped.
"Thank goodness, you're alright," she sobbed against my cheek. I held her back, letting the familiar scent of her lavender perfume ground me after the chaos of the storm. It felt right to be home.
As Mom's grip loosened, she caught sight of Lauren standing awkwardly behind me, her blonde hair tousled from the wind, her form curvy and cautious. I closed my eyes and gave my head a quick shake to dispel the very inappropriate thoughts that tried to worm their way in.
With a swift movement, Mom extended her arm, drawing Lauren into our tight hug. "And you—you must be the smart, lovely girl who kept my son safe when that dreadful storm rolled in."