Drugged

Alaric's confession had lifted Vespera's spirits. Now that they had finally opened up to each other, all her worries seemed to melt away. Sitting atop the hill, Vespera gazed at the breathtaking view, peacefully sketching in her notebook.

It had been ages since she'd felt this calm while drawing. The man sitting behind her, watching over her, was the reason she could finally relax and focus.

Vespera felt her inspiration flooding back. All the anxiety and restlessness from the night before had vanished, leaving only tranquility in its wake.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Vespera finished a piece she was truly proud of. With darkness falling, she stood up and packed away her easel. Alaric immediately came over to help, carrying her supplies in one hand and holding hers with the other. "Ready to go?" he asked softly.

Vespera nodded, following Alaric down the hill. The descent was much easier than the climb up, but Alaric insisted on holding her hand the entire way. Somehow, this ge