Isabella’s eyes fluttered open to the rhythmic beeping of machines and the sterile scent of antiseptic. A dull ache radiated from her stomach, and her vision was blurred, as though she were peering through frosted glass. Slowly, her senses sharpened, and she realized she was in a hospital bed, surrounded by the soft hum of medical equipment.
As her vision cleared, she noticed a figure curled up on the small love seat across the room. It was Dominic, his large frame awkwardly contorted to fit the tiny space. He was fast asleep, his usually sharp and commanding features softened by exhaustion. Dark circles hung beneath his eyes, and his clothes were wrinkled, as though he hadn’t changed or slept properly in days. His hair was disheveled, and the stubble on his face had grown into a short be
