Chapter 81
Killian sat beside Serena's bed, his eyes scanning hers as if searching for any sign of pain. The faint morning light filtered through the half-drawn drapes, painting white streaks across her face. She was calm for the first time in days. Her breathing was steady, her cheeks no longer bore the pale sheen of fever, and her pulse felt firm beneath his fingertips. He breathed slowly, the burden lifting off his chest as he watched her blink to open her eyes.
Serena's eyes wandered across the room before focusing on him. She stared for a moment, as if trying to translate the creases of worry etched into his face. Then she gave him a thin smile, her lips curling up in relief.
"You are still here," she drew out in a breath, her tone full of thanks and a hint of disbelief.
Killian n
