~ Lucian’s POV

I sat on the edge of the bed as Bella’s breathing evened out, her face finally showing some relief. The tension in my body didn’t ease, though; I was too worried to relax. The room was quiet except for the faint sound of her breaths, but the silence felt heavy, pressing against my chest. I brushed a strand of hair away from her face and leaned in close, pressing a gentle kiss on her forehead.

“Please be okay,” I whispered, more to myself than to her.

I stood up and ...