Chapter 44. The Untold Truth

Author's POV

Luciano moved through the dense woods with careful steps, his arms were cradling Adeline against his chest.

Her head rested on his shoulder, her breaths soft and steady as she slept. The moonlight filtered through the canopy of leaves above, casting silvery streaks across their path.

The forest was eerily quiet, save for the occasional rustle of leaves underfoot.

Luciano’s jaw was tight, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts. The weight of Adeline in his arms wasn’t a burden and he carried her as though she weighed nothing.

Yet the sight of her like this, so vulnerable, stirred something fierce and protective within him. She was safe for now, but for how long? He held her close against his chest and his heart was racing badly, pounding in his chest like a fucking drum that was ready to explode.

The car came into view through the trees, and Luciano quickened his pace, careful not to jostle her.

Christian was leaning agains