Chapter 144

• Restless and unable to find solace in sleep, Winona reached out her hand in search of her mate, only to be met with the emptiness of the bed, a familiar sensation that left her longing for his presence. Determined to shake off the drowsiness that clung to her, she forced her eyes open, only to find Noel standing by the window, his figure illuminated by the soft moonlight that filtered through the curtains. Concern etched across her face, she propped herself up against the plush pillows, her voice filled with genuine worry as she questioned, "Noel, are you still unable to find rest?"
• Turning to face her, Noel's gaze met hers, his expression a mix of weariness and determination. Glancing at the clock, Winona noted the late hour, the hands pointing to two o'clock in the morning, a time when most of the world was enveloped in peaceful slumber. "Don't concern yourself with me, my love," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of exhaustion, his hand waving dismissively as if to brush away her worries.
• Feeling a surge of determination coursing through her veins, Winona threw off the warm duvet that cocooned her body, casting it aside with a sense of urgency. She crossed the room, her steps purposeful and resolute, her eyes never leaving Noel's form by the window. As she drew closer, she noticed his outstretched arms, an unspoken invitation for her to seek solace in his embrace. Without hesitation, she walked into his waiting arms, feeling the familiar warmth and strength of his touch as his hands encircled her waist, pulling her closer.