~ Lucian’s POV

“Today was perfect,” Bella murmured, resting her head against my shoulder. “Thank you for taking the time.”

I kissed the top of her head. “You deserve more than just a perfect day, Bella. You deserve everything.”

Dinner was simple but perfect, just how Bella liked it. She declared herbed salmon, roasted vegetables, and a light dessert “heavenly” after the first bite. We talked about everything and nothing, our conversation flowing with the ease of two people who had nothing to hide from one another but that was not true. I was hiding a lot from her.

“You know,” she said, setting her fork down and resting her...