The following morning, Lyra woke with a sense of renewed hope, a gentle warmth blooming in her chest. For the first time in what felt like ages, she had slept without the cruel grasp of nightmares clawing at her, without waking in a cold sweat, gasping for air.
And the reason was none other than Casian.
His embrace had been a shield against her demons, a comforting barrier that kept the darkness at bay. Wrapped securely in his arms, she had been cocooned, nestled against the steady rise and fall of his chest. His warmth had soothed her, his heartbeat a steady, calming rhythm that lulled her into a peaceful slumber.
Lyra's gaze wandered to him now, and she found herself admiring the quiet strength etched in his features.
