Lucien rose from the bench, gathering his papers as the courtroom murmurs settled. The bailiff announced, "All rise for the honorable judge."
Everyone stood respectfully as Lucien made his way out.
Unexpectedly, Ash leaped forward, wrapping his legs around Lucien's waist and his arms tightly around his chest.
Lucien froze for a moment as the Alphas, Betas, and Omegas in the room stared in astonishment. Then he murmured, calm but faintly amused, "Easy, Ash...easy."
Ash buried his face against Lucien's chest, voice muffled. "You were brilliant up there. Let me stay like this...just a little longer."
Lucien sighed, a faint smile curving his lips. "Fine," he said quietly, continuing toward the judge's chamber, completely unbothered by the stunned stares following them.
