[Lavinia's Pov—The Next Day—Morning]
Morning arrived gently.
Sunlight slipped through the curtains, painting the chamber in warm gold, as if the day itself wished us happiness. I stirred—but couldn't move.
Because I was wrapped in Haldor's arms.
Not loosely. Not accidentally. But protectively. Possessively. Like he feared the world might steal me away if he loosened his hold. His breath brushed softly against my skin, steady and warm. Real.
I shifted slightly and immediately felt it—Oh gods… my body.
I winced.
I shot a glare at the sleeping captain beside me.
I never thought the shy, innocent Captain of the Imperial Knights was hiding such terrifying strength.
Then I looked at his face.
And melted instantly.
His lashes rested softly against his cheeks. His brows—always so tense in daylight—were smooth, unburdened. He looked younger like this. Gentler. Beautiful in a way that belonged only to me.
I smiled without realizing it.
Carefully, I moved just a little.
