FIFTY THREE

Lucien smiled as Mara opened the door wider, allowing him in. He inhaled the flowery scent of her, allowing himself a moment to think about the last time they had seen; at his brother’s wedding where she had teased and called him a gigolo. He was over all that now but it did not stop the smile from lighting up his face. She had seemed surprised to see him and had taken in his appearance with one sweep of her perfectly beautiful eyes and he was grateful he had worn a really good- looking suit although he had no idea what the occasion was, she looked stunning as always even dressed in that office garb.

“If you continue staring at me, I am going to pluck out your eyes.” Mara commented as she closed the door.

“Charming as always.” Lucien laughed.

He and Elizabeth hugged as she gave him hell about only visiting when he is invited.

“I have a lot of work going on but I promise to visit more often.” He told her as his brother came around for a hug.

“You look fatter, what has Elizabeth been fee