(Cara = Beloved) (Carissima = Dearest )

You were walking through the gardens, trying to find a moment of peace away from everything. The sun was beginning to dip low, casting a warm glow over everything, and you thought you might finally have a break-until you heard that familiar voice behind you.

"Running away from the world again, cara?" Lucius Verus' teasing tone reached your ears before he even appeared in your line of sight.

You turned to see him standing a few paces behind, his usual smirk on his lips. It was one of those smiles that made you feel both seen and helplessly caught in his gaze. You couldn't hide the slight blush that rose to your cheeks.

"I'm not running away," you replied, hoping to sound casual despite the flutter in your chest. "I just wanted some peace and quiet."

Lucius chuckled, his stride long and effortless as he closed the distance between you. "And yet, when you're alone, you still think of me, don't you?" He raised an eyebrow, his gaze intense and playful. "I don't blame you. It must be hard not to."

You rolled your eyes, though your heart betrayed you. "Hard not to think of you? Is that supposed to be a compliment?"

His eyes sparkled with amusement. "Oh, I didn't mean it that way, but if it makes you blush like that, then yes," he teased, clearly enjoying the effect he had on you.

You sighed, trying to compose yourself. "You're insufferable."

"Insufferably charming, you mean," Lucius corrected smoothly, stepping even closer until there was barely any space between you. His voice dropped lower. "I like to think I'm a very memorable man."

You stepped back, hoping the distance might quell the heat in your cheeks. But Lucius wasn't finished. He circled around you like a predator playing with his prey, his presence overwhelming yet somehow comforting.

"Tell me,carissima ," he said, a wicked glint in his eyes, "Do you like being around me, or is it simply my company that flusters you so?"

You had no choice but to stare at him, a mixture of frustration and desire in your gaze. Lucius was a master at this-his teasing ways always finding their mark.

"I... I think you know the answer to that," you muttered, your voice quieter now, betraying the heat that had risen to your face.

"Ah," Lucius sighed with mock disappointment. "I thought you might. But I must admit, I like seeing you flustered. It's a clear sign that you belong to me, whether you want to admit it or not."

Your breath caught at his words, and for a brief moment, you couldn't find your voice. The way he spoke, so confident and sure, made your heart race, and yet... it was difficult to deny that part of you longed to be his, to be claimed in the most teasing, maddening way possible.

Lucius, seeing your struggle, smiled wider, his tone turning softer. "No need to be shy, cara. You're already mine, in every way that matters." He reached out, brushing a stray lock of hair behind your ear, his fingers lingering a moment too long, sending a ripple of warmth down your spine.

You took a deep breath, steadying yourself. "You certainly like to make sure I know it."

"Of course," he murmured, leaning in closer, his breath warm against your skin. "I like seeing you try to hide it. It makes it all the more fun when I remind you." His lips brushed against your ear as he spoke, his words carrying a weight of possessiveness that made your heart flutter.

You took another step back, trying to regain control of your emotions. "You're impossible."

"But you like it," Lucius said softly, his smile never faltering. He was far too aware of the effect he had on you. "You'll see. I'll keep reminding you until you can't help but admit it."