Chapter 49: A Healer at Last

Selene’s POV

Lucian's surprise at realizing I was awake seemed to freeze him for a moment. His eyes, wide and unguarded, met mine as we found ourselves caught in a silent stand-off. Time seemed suspended as we just stared at each other, the air thick with unsaid words and unresolved tensions. My heart pounded fiercely in my chest, not just from the shock of his sudden appearance but also from the turmoil of emotions that his presence stirred within me.

Finally, Lucian spoke, his voice low and heavy with emotion. "I've been protecting you, Selene."

The confession hung in the air. My initial reaction was a mix of disbelief and confusion. "Protecting me?" I echoed, my tone laced with frustration. "From what? And why bother if you've grown tired of me?"

Lucian's expression softened, the lines of his face relaxing as he shook his head slowly. "I've never grown tired of you, Selene. That's not it. My meeting with Maria was… It was to clear the air between us. There's nothing more."