VALERIA

After our moment in the study, Zane insisted I take a nap, claiming I’d had a rough day and needed to recharge. In return, I made him lie down with me.

The dark circles under his eyes hadn't escaped my notice—he looked utterly exhausted.

Clearly, he had been so busy that he'd forgotten to rest. That would explain why he hadn't made it home yesterday.

....

By the time I woke up, the sun had dipped lower in the sky, filling the room with a warm glow.

As my eyes fluttered open, Zane’s face was the first thing I saw, just inches away from mine—his sharp features were peaceful...