Elara's instinct told her to run, but her legs refused to move. Lucian walked toward her like the crowd didn't exist, his presence parting people without a word. By the time he stood in front of her, her pulse was racing.
"You shouldn't look so frightened," he murmured, voice smooth as velvet. "I only came to speak with you."
Her grip tightened on her clipboard. "How do you know my name?"
Lucian's smile was faint, dangerous. "I know many things."
Before she could press further, Dr. Morrison, the senior physician, appeared at her side. He cleared his throat sharply. "Mr. D'Amaris, thank you for your generous donation. But Miss Elara has patients to tend to."
Lucian's gaze lingered on her, unyielding. Then, with a subtle nod, he stepped back. "Until later, nurse."
The way he said it made her shiver.
When the crowd shifted again, Elara slipped away, her thoughts spiraling. She didn't know what Lucian wanted, but one thing was certain—men like him didn't chase nurses.
Yet he had.
And deep down, Elara feared it had nothing to do with money, or chance, but something far darker.
Something she couldn't escape.
..