CH 31
The first light of dawn crept through the curtains, painting the penthouse in soft gold. Damon’s arm wrapped tightly around Aria, holding her close as if letting go could unravel everything. Her cheek rested against his chest, feeling the steady thrum of his heartbeat—the only rhythm that could ground her after the night’s chaos. She inhaled deeply, taking in the faint scent of his cologne mixed with the lingering traces of the city air that clung to him, and a shiver of desire ran through her.
“Sleep a little,” Damon murmured, his lips brushing the crown of her head. “You’ll need strength.”
Aria stirred, her mind still tangled in the remnants of danger, the shadow of Adrian, and the lingering warmth of Damon’s touch. “I… I can’t stop thinking,” she whispered. “About last night.
