Lucien smiled as he stood by the doorway, the soft crackle of the fire behind him faded into the quiet warmth of the now subdued forest.

His smile widened as he looked back towards the bed where his mate now slept.

Aria was still sound asleep, her breathing was calm and smooth. Even unconscious, he could spot a smile forming at the corner of her lips.

The moonlight spilled through the now defrosted window and shone brightly on Aria’s sleeping form. For a brief moment, Lucien thought ...