Selene’s POV

Lucian's surprise at realizing I was awake seemed to freeze him for a moment. His eyes, wide and unguarded, met mine as we found ourselves caught in a silent stand-off. Time seemed suspended as we just stared at each other, the air thick with unsaid words and unresolved tensions. My heart pounded fiercely in my chest, not just from the shock of his sudden appearance but also from the turmoil of emotions that his presence stirred within me.

Finally, Lucian spoke, ...