Lucas met his eyes and just for a split second, the humor drained from his expression.
"Hey," Lucas said lightly. "How is our favorite reckless driver?"
Alexander studied him carefully. "You don't look like someone who came to make jokes."
Evelyn glanced between them, sensing it too. "I will get you coffee," she said quickly, already standing. "Hospital coffee is terrible but it exists."
Lucas smiled at her. "You are a lifesaver."
She squeezed Alexander's shoulder gently before leaving.
The moment the door closed, the air changed.
Alexander's smile faded. "What did you find?"
Lucas didn't answer immediately. He moved closer, lowering his voice instinctively even though they were alone.
"Not here," he said.
Alexander's jaw tightened. "Lucas."
Lucas exhaled slowly. "I promised myself I wouldn't tell you while she was in the room."
"That bad?" Alexander asked quietly.
Lucas held his gaze. "Bad enough that I don't want her hearing it by accident."
