Lithira let go of their embrace, her hand brushing against Lucien's cheek before she gave it a playful pinch, making him flinch.
"I'm not a child anymore, you know! I'll be fine," she teased, her pink eyes glinting.
"Though… I'm sorry I can't help you yet."
"Ow," Lucien muttered, grabbing her hand and gently forcing her to let go of his now sore cheek.
"I know you'll be fine. I'm just worried, alright? I keep breaking my promises." He sighed, feeling the weight of his own failures settle on his shoulders.
Lithira pouted, crossing her arms in front of her chest. "You've been breaking a lot of promises lately."
Her tone turned more serious, her gaze narrowing slightly. "You promised it would only be me and Mother in your life, but I've seen you glancing at that ice dragon, Avalerry!"
Lucien's eyes widened as his face troubled. He tried to open his mouth to respond, but Lithira wasn't done.