36. (DANE POV)

(DANE POV)

The sounds that filled the room were authentic, arising naturally from the depth of our connection, devoid of any pretense or exaggerated display.

It was crucial to me, vital even, that she felt the profound distinction between the spectacle forced upon us in Magness's presence and the genuine, heartfelt union we shared now.

The lessons I learned from my turbulent history with Deirk, as well as the pain and confusion that had lingered for centuries before we finally addressed it, underscored the importance of this moment.

I was determined to ensure that she recognized the difference, to prevent any shadow of doubt or misinterpretation from clouding her perception.

I wanted her to know that what we shared was real and pure, worlds apart from the manipulation and coercion forced on us.

This was about us, about a connection that defied the constraints of time and circumstance.

Eventually, I watched over her as she fell asleep, mere hours before the dawn signaled th