Chapter 178

• REBECCA
• I roused from slumber to find the expanse of the bed empty beside me, an unexpected void that jolted me into alertness. Swiftly, I elevated myself into a sitting position, my eyes grappling with the persistent morning radiance as I blinked away the remnants of sleep.
• Emerging from the covers, I navigated my way toward the crib stationed nearby, only to discover it vacant, devoid of the presence I anticipated. My recollection painted a picture of Artemy embarking on his early morning ritual to tend to Cevia. Had they not returned to the comfort of our shared sanctuary?