Chapter 59

• Sylvia Luke woke up later in the night, her surroundings cloaked in a quiet stillness that felt both comforting and eerie. She glanced beside her and saw Stephan Damon, already fast asleep. His face was relaxed, but she could see the lines of fatigue etched deeply across his forehead. This sight made her heart ache for him; he looked so tired, burdened by everything that had happened.
• A wave of guilt washed over her as she reflected on the troubles she had caused him. She couldn’t shake the feeling that if she had only let him be, he wouldn’t have to endure this stress and worry. The weight of her circumstances pressed heavily on her chest, and she turned away, fighting the emotions that threatened to overwhelm her.
• Suddenly, Stephan Damon stirred, opening his eyes and focusing on her. Surprise flickered across his face, quickly replaced by a warm smile. “You are awake,” he said, his voice a soft murmur.