Allison's POV
I woke before dawn, my heart pounding with anticipation.
Today was the day—my last day as Lucian Storm's mate.
My last day trapped in this gilded cage.
The bedroom door opened softly behind me.
Lucian stood there in his running clothes, sweat glistening on his forehead and dampening his shirt.
Our eyes met, and for a moment, neither of us spoke.
"You're up early," he finally said, his voice husky from exertion.
I turned fully toward him, letting my silk robe fall open just enough to reveal the curve of my collarbone.
His eyes darkened instantly, tracking the movement with predatory intensity.
"I've been thinking," I said, my voice deliberately soft. "What if we had the house to ourselves today? Just you and me."
Lucian raised an eyebrow, int
