Chapter 53 The Surveillance

• Violet
• I woke slowly, the sterile scent of the hospital room giving away my surroundings before I even opened my eyes. The ache in my body from the fight reminded me of everything that had happened, but it was the warmth at my side that pulled me fully into consciousness.
• I shifted slightly and found myself curled against Theodore, his arms securely around me, his body a solid, protective presence. His steady breathing was a comfort I felt down to my soul. For a moment, I let myself savor it—the safety, the quiet, the way my heart seemed to beat in time with his.