LUCIEN’S POV

I woke to a sharp, insistent knock on the door.

The sound cut through the haze of sleep like a blade. I groaned low in my throat, instinctively pulling Adele closer. She was warm and soft against my chest, her breathing slow and even, blonde hair spilling across my arm like silk.

Last night came rushing back…the candles, her dance, her body under mine, the way she’d whispered she loved me. I wanted to stay right here, buried in this bed with her, and never leave.

I wanted to pretend the world outside this room didn't exist.

The knock came again—harder this time.

Adele stirred, mumbling sleepily against...