The Awaken Of The Villian

The golden rays of morning sunlight crept into Zara's chamber, the soft glow warming her face and slowly rousing her from sleep. She blinked groggily, her lashes fluttering against the intrusion of light as a soft moan escaped her lips. Instinctively, she tried to stretch her body, craving relief from the stillness of sleep. But something stopped her.

Her brows furrowed in confusion as she attempted to move again, only to find herself restricted. Then, the realization hit her like a tidal wave.

Two pairs of strong, unyielding arms encased her from both sides.

Turning her head to the left, she saw Denzal, his bare chest rising and falling with each steady breath. His powerful arm was wrapped securely around her waist, holding her as if she might vanish in his sleep. His face was nestled against her neck, the warmth of his skin seeping into hers.