Tessa’s POV:
Two days had passed since Tori’s mask had finally crumbled to dust.
The estate had quieted, physically, at least. The whispers still drifted like smoke between walls, and the air held a tension that hadn’t quite settled. But me? I was wrapped in warmth. Safe. Held.
Lucian’s arms encircled me, strong and sure, his chin resting on top of my head as soft sunlight filtered in through the curtains. His breathing was even and deep, but I knew he wasn’t asleep. He hadn’t let me out of his sight since the moment we returned, like he thought I’d disappear again if he blinked.
And oddly enough, I didn’t mind.
His scent, that mix of pine and something uniquely him, filled my lungs. I curled closer, smiling against his bare chest. This was real. Him. Me. Us.
“Tessa,” he murmured, hi
