CHAPTER 23

  Aubrey's POV

  My eyes flickered open, and I slowly lifted my lids, wincing as the soft light danced across my vision. The gentle glow intensified, sending tingles through my eyes. I blinked rapidly, adjusting to the brightness.

  As my gaze cleared, I took a close look at my surroundings. I lay in a hospital room, enclosed by sterile beige walls adorned with medical charts and monitors. The air was thick with disinfectant, and the hum of machinery provided a steady background sound.

  Christian's worried face hovered above mine, his eyes red-rimmed from lack of sleep. Lucas stood beside him, his chiseled features etched with concern. Their faces blurred momentarily before snapping back into focus.

  I tried to sit up, but a wave of dizziness washed over me. Lucas quickly grasped my shoulders, easing me back onto the pillow.

  "Aubrey, take it easy," he urged, stepping forward, his broad shoulders flexing beneath his suit. "Aubrey, you fainted. You're in the hospital"