~ Isabella’s POV

I woke up slowly, feeling the warmth of the sunlight filtering through the curtains. As I opened my eyes, I found Lucian sitting by the edge of the bed, smiling down at me. His gaze was soft and filled with affection, and it made my heart skip a beat.

"Good morning," he said, his voice low and warm.

I blinked a few times, rubbing my eyes to shake off the remnants of sleep. "Why are you smiling at me like that?" I asked, still trying to make sense of my grogginess.

Lucian ...