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At dawn, Lucian wakes in Sloane’s bed, quietly tending to her cat and starting pancakes and coffee. Nash and Lina arrive with news about the fire, while teasing Lucian’s ill-fitting borrowed clothes. Sloane appears bruised but composed, and Nash confirms investigators found signs of arson at the library.

Over breakfast, Nash explains the back door was jimmied, systems were disabled, and two gas cans were found near the children’s section. Sloane intends to assess damage and contact insurance, but Nash bars her from the active crime scene. Pressed for suspects, Sloane reveals she was recently pinned in her car by a masked man who warned her to leave Mary Louise’s case alone.

Lucian erupts at learning of the earlier attack and that Nash kept it from him at Sloane’s request. The group refocuses on next steps. Knox and Naomi arrive with food; Knox shares that a contractor can start rebuilding immediately with a three-to-four-month timeline, even ahead of insurance delays.

Overwhelmed at the prospect of months closed, Sloane asks what to do next. Lucian promises to find a temporary space and replace losses, asserting he’s staying. When Sloane resists his sudden certainty, Lucian carries her outside to talk privately, insisting they are together and that he’ll protect her.

On the porch, Lucian admits he kept distance before to shield Sloane from Hugo, vows never to let danger separate them again, and offers to move back, build a family, and support whatever life she wants. Sloane challenges their incompatibilities and rejects being ordered into a relationship. Lucian remains unwavering, framing their commitment as decided while she continues to push back.