ANASTASIA’S POV

I woke to a deep, steady breathing rhythm next to me. I snuggled closer, wanting more of the warmth.

My eyes fluttered open, and for a second, I thought I was alone on the bed. Then I felt the weight of an arm across my waist and turned to find Ivan lying beside me, his face relaxed in sleep. We weren’t tangled together, but his hold on me was gentle.

Then the memories from last night came flooding in. The ice cream, laughter, and the way he made me feel. The ache in my chest had eased just a little. But that was last night.

This morning was...