Warm sunlight spilled into the vast chamber of the Vine Castle. The golden glow touched the silk sheets that were tangled around Aria’s bare body. The morning sun bled through the tall windows and illuminated the room.

For a minute, after she had awoken, all she did was lie still.

She could feel Lucien lying beside her, his arm was draped protectively over her chest. The rise and fall of his chest was steady and peaceful. He was asleep.

She turned to face him and smiled, the usual ...