CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE: A New Step

ANASTASIA’S POV:

The first tendrils of dawn filter through the sheer curtains, casting a soft glow across the guest room. I stir, the warmth of Hugh's embrace cocooning me in a sense of security I haven’t known before. I shift slightly, feeling the dull ache between my legs, a reminder of the night's passionate intensity. But I welcome it, for it’s a small price to pay for the bliss I’m feeling.

Ignoring the twinge of discomfort, I focus instead on the rise and fall of Hugh's chest against my back, the steady rhythm of his breath is comforting. I marvel at the sensation of his arms wrapped around me, holding me close as if I’m the most precious thing in the world to him.

But even as I bask in the warmth of our connection, I can’t shake the nagging thought that this moment may be fleeting, that reality will soon come crashing down around us.

I turn to gaze at Hugh's sleeping form. His face, so handsome, every edge, perfect.

With a tender smile playing on my lips, I press mys