Isabella awoke the next morning with a hazy recollection of how she’d fallen asleep. Her body felt warm and heavy, comforted by the embrace of sleep and something else— something solid and reassuring. As she began to stir, she noticed an arm draped around her waist, strong and protective, holding her close. Her heart pounded for a moment, panic bubbling to the surface until the familiar scent of Dominic filled her senses. The distinctive blend of cedarwood, leather, and a hint of smoke wrapped around her, grounding her instantly. She could practically see the image of him leaning against a car, a cigarette in hand, the smoke curling lazily into the air. Her heart rate slowed, and she closed her eyes, savoring the peace that, for once, seemed to settle over her.
But the moment was fleetin
