~ Isabella’s POV

We sat like that for a while, the book forgotten for the moment, just enjoying the peace of the afternoon and each other’s company. The world around us seemed to fade away, leaving only the sound of the water and the warmth between us.

Eventually, Lucian spoke again. "We’ll keep practicing, okay? I’ll bring more books, and soon enough, you’ll be reading on your own."

I nodded, feeling more hopeful than I had in a long time. "I’d like that," I said with a small smile.

After our quiet moment by the lake, Lucian stood up and offered me his hand. "Come on, there’s more places I...