The first thing I notice is how still it is. I wake slowly, body sore but a little steadier than yesterday. My ankle aches if I move too quickly, and my ribs are stiff, but I can sit up without that sharp pain stabbing through me. Lucien is already there, as if he never left. He’s sitting in a chair by the door, hands clasped loosely, watching me. “Morning,” he says gently. “How are you feeling?” “Better,” I mutter. “Still sore, but… better.” He nods. “Good. You slept well. That’s important.” I glance around. Everything is neat, warm, simple. A small table with water, a folded blanket, and a few personal items: a hairbrush, comb, cream, and a soft cotton robe. “You can move around today,” he says. “The house is safe, and you’re not in any immediate danger. But don’t go outside yet. You’re not healed completely, and it’s only forest out there—you’ll get lost.” “Forest?” I ask. “You’ll see. For now, explore inside,” he says. “If you need anything, I—or someone
Last Updated : 2026-03-07 Read more