**chapter 9**
Roxy’s eyes fluttered open, slowly emerging from the deepest sleep she had experienced in weeks. The soft, warm light filtering through the curtains embraced her, and as her senses began to awaken, she became aware of a rhythmic breathing sound nearby.
Lifting her head, Roxy squinted and focused on the figure beside her. Valentino lay asleep, his features relaxed and peaceful, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. His chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, creating an oddly comforting melody in the stillness of the morning.
Looking down, Roxy realized she had unconsciously wrapped herself around him, one of her legs draped over his, and her arm resting across his muscled chest, feeling the warmth radiate from him. The sensation sent a flutter through her stomach.
"Oh
