The following morning, William stretched his arms out from under the comforter, memories of the incredible night he shared with his beloved flooding back. He got up and gazed at Isabella beside him, snug under the comforter up to her chest. Her neck was covered in countless hickeys, with a prominent red bite mark on the left side gleaming brightly.

'The serenity of this morning is unmatched. It's been years since I've slept so soundly,' William thought, taking in the sight of Isabella's peaceful slumber and feeling an overwhelming sense of calm.

As the sensation of a warm gaze reached her face, Isabella's slumber was disturbed. She stirred and gradually...