Chapter 180

• REBECCA
• Three weeks had passed since that pivotal moment. Artemy's arm drew me toward him, enveloping me until I was nestled against his warmth, almost melding into him. His strong arms encircled my waist, and I pressed myself against him, my head finding its place on his shoulder. As if seeking solace, one of my legs draped over his hips, and his grip on my thigh was both firm and possessive.
• In the cocoon of his embrace, I inhaled his scent, the rhythmic cadence of his heartbeat serenading me. His touch traced indistinct patterns across my back, each stroke a balm to my senses, lulling me into tranquility.