“Babe, slow down.”

Lucan’s voice called out to you as he followed behind, navigating the mall’s endless hallway. He’d been walking for—what now?—an hour? Maybe more. Not that he was complaining. This was what he liked: pampering you, spoiling you with whatever caught your eye. Money was never the issue.

But damn, you always managed to find a reason to start a little fight. He found it endearing, though. It was your way of demanding his attention—and truth be told, you already had all of it. Always. He’d never get mad about it. Never had, never would. He wouldn’t dare.

A few minutes ago, you’d asked him to hold your hand. Sweet, sure—but how could he? When both of his hands were full of shopping bags, loaded with the things you’d picked out? He was used to this, though. Honestly, it was part of the reason he hit the gym so religiously—building up his arms, his biceps, his grip strength. All for his princess.

“Baby…” he called out again with a sigh. He was this close to scooping you up in his arms and carrying you straight to the car. Kidnapping you from the mall didn’t sound like the worst idea right now. But then again… had you even finished shopping?