Lucia’s POV
Daniel looked the same yet different. His sharp blue eyes still held that familiar intensity, but there was something else now, something weary. His dark hair was slightly longer, and a light layer of scruff covered his jaw, as if he hadn’t shaved in days. He looked… different. Rough.
But none of that mattered.
I couldn’t stop myself. Before I knew it, I was moving, closing the distance between us.
His familiar scent of pine and musk wrapped around me, grounding me in a way I hadn’t felt in so long. His arms tightened around me, strong and sure, as if he was afraid to let go.
“Lucia…” His voice was hoarse, barely above a whisper.
I buried my face in his shoulder, gripping his jacket like it was the only thing keeping me standing. “I missed you,” I breathed.
He exhaled s
