Twenty two

Belle's POV

I woke up with a start, my heart pounding in my chest. I was supposed to be hungover, but except for the way my heart strummed against my chest, I felt perfect.

Almost perfect.

I opened my eyes dreamily and looked around the room. The room was dimly lit by the early morning light filtering through the curtains. For a moment, I wondered if I was dreaming.

The warmth beside me felt surreal. I turned my head and saw Zane lying next to me, his eyes closed, his breathing steady. I inhaled deeply, taking in his scent—a mix of fresh pine and a hint of something musky and comforting.

I snuggled closer into his arms, feeling the heat of his body against mine. His presence was soothing, and I closed my eyes, wanting to live in this moment forever. "Zane, if this is a dream, which I know it is, let me not wake up from it," I whispered.

Zane's arms tightened around me. He stroked my hair gently, his fingers brushing the strands out of my face. His touch was tender, and I felt a warm