_Kaden's POV_
The first rays of sunlight streamed through the curtains, bathing the room in a soft, golden light. I sat in the chair beside Avery's bed, watching her sleep peacefully. Her breathing was steady, her chest rising and falling in a rhythm that calmed the storm inside me. I didn’t sleep last night, but I didn’t care. Having her back safe and sound was all that mattered.
Her eyelashes fluttered, and I straightened in my chair. Slowly, her eyes opened, their warm brown hue meeting mine. She smiled faintly, and I felt my heart clench. Even after everything, she still looked at me with kindness.
“Good morning,” I said softly, moving closer to the bed.
“Morning,” she replied, her voice still weak but a bit stronger than last night. She stretched slightly, then winced as if the mo
