Phantom’s POV
The fountain’s spray glittered in the sunlight, scattering droplets across the marble. Maryelle sat at its edge, her gown pooling like flame, her brown hair alive with morning light. I stood close, brushing my fingers along her shoulder, savoring the warmth of her skin. She leaned into me, her strength thrumming, her beauty undeniable.
My breath hitched and my skin heated, as I fought with great restraint to remain a gentleman while we were in public. My girl’s so freaking beautiful.
The gardens were alive with sound — birds darting through branches, bees humming over blossoms, the steady trickle of water from the fountain. Yet all of it faded when I looked at her. She had changed. The fragility that once clung to her was gone. She moved with confidence, every gesture de
