Serena’s POV

The morning sun spilled over the city skyline, brushing the streets and rooftops with golden light. Birds chirped lazily, a gentle symphony of life that felt almost unreal after the chaos of the past weeks. I sat on the balcony, wrapped in a soft blanket, watching the world awaken. My body had healed remarkably, the bruises fading into memories, though the aches of battle still lingered as a reminder of how close I had come to losing everything.

Ross joined me quietly, a steaming cup of tea in each hand. “Here,” he said, handing me one. His eyes softened as he studied my face, lingering on the faint...