Ara's POV
The moment Damon carried me over the threshold of the shabby packhouse, my breath caught in my throat.
This can't be right.
From the outside, the building looked like it might collapse at any moment-weathered wood, sagging roof, vines creeping up the walls. But inside...
Inside was a different world entirely.
Warm golden light flickered from iron sconces, casting dancing shadows across rich mahogany floors. A massive stone fireplace dominated the far wall, its flames crackling lazily. Plush fur rugs were strewn about, and the air carried the faintest hint of...
Mint and sage.
The scent wrapped around me like a velvet cloak, calming my racing heart even as it set my nerves alight. It was him. It had to be.
Damon didn't speak as he carried me up the creaking staircase, his
