That morning, sunlight slipped through the curtains of Vania’s hospital room, falling softly across her pale face. Her body had yet to fully recover from the trauma of the night before. But her eyes looked calmer now — perhaps because Arga had spent the entire night sitting in the chair beside her bed, never once leaving her side.

When Arga finally stepped out to speak with the doctor, the door opened quietly.

Vania turned — and her heart nearly stopped.

“Devandra…” her voice caught in her throat.

He stood at the doorway in a crisp black suit, though his face looked weary and worn. His sharp eyes were now tired,...