Freda's POV

I slowly opened my eyes, the morning light seeping in through the curtains, casting a soft glow in the room. As I tried to sit up, I felt a hand gently holding me down. Confused, I turned my head and saw Hardin lying beside me, his arm wrapped around me, holding me tight.

His eyes fluttered open, and our gazes locked. At that moment, a mix of emotions flooded through me. I couldn't deny the anger and hurt that lingered from what he had done, but there was something about him in this vulnerable morning light that tugged at my heart.

I studied his face, the lines of...