**Stefano’s POV**

I woke up with Elena curled against me, her naked body warm and soft in my arms, her leg draped over my thigh.

Morning light slipped through the curtains, landing on her face. She was still asleep, breathing slowly, her lips slightly parted, and her blonde hair spread wildly across the pillow.

My chest tightened with a sudden, sharp ache.

I lifted my hand slowly, hovering my fingers just an inch above her skin before letting them trace the line of her jaw. She stirred, ...