The sunlight that filtered through the thin linen curtains of Clara’s bedroom was soft and pale, casting a golden glow over the tangled sheets. For a few seconds, Clara lay still, the haze of sleep slowly lifting. Then, she felt it—the heavy, comforting weight of an arm draped across her waist and the steady, rhythmic heat of a body pressed against her back.

She didn't need to open her eyes to know it was Liam. The scent of him—that intoxicating blend of sandalwood and warmth—was wrapped around her like a blanket.