#27

Eve’s POV:

I woke up to the enticing aroma of food wafting through the room. My senses slowly came alive as I blinked my eyes open, trying to make sense of my surroundings.

Ryan stood by the bedside, a tray of food in his hands. His eyes met mine, and a mixture of emotions flickered across his face – concern, determination, and something else that I couldn't quite put my finger on.

"Morning," he said softly, his voice a blend of warmth and uncertainty. "I hope you're feeling better."

I tried to sit up, only to feel a twinge of pain shoot through my face. Yesterday I didn't realize how deep the wounds were on my face. I hissed in discomfort, my hand instinctively going on my face covering the cuts from the recent attack.

"Careful," he cautioned, moving closer to me. "You're still healing. Let me help you."

Before I could protest, he placed the tray of food on the nightstand and reached out to gently lift me into a sitting position.

I felt his hand against my back, his touch sending s