Nicole's Pov
I wake up feeling much better, the weight of exhaustion no longer pressing down on me. Turning to glance at the clock on the bedside table, I see it’s almost noon. I stretch, feeling the energy coursing through me, and decide to test out the mind link again.
Focusing on Drake, I picture him in my head and send the thought, "How are things going with my father?"
Almost immediately, his voice comes through, accompanied by a warm chuckle. "We’re doing fine. I see you’re getting the hang of the mind link. How did you sleep?"
I smile to myself, sitting up in bed. "Sleep was exactly what I needed," I reply. "Thank you for insisting. I feel so much better now."
"Good," Drake responds, his tone carrying that familiar mix of care and authority. "I’m glad you listened."
I swing my
