Chapter 176. The Command

Warm sunlight spilled into the vast chamber of the Vine Castle. The golden glow touched the silk sheets that were tangled around Aria’s bare body. The morning sun bled through the tall windows and illuminated the room.

For a minute, after she had awoken, all she did was lie still.

She could feel Lucien lying beside her, his arm was draped protectively over her chest. The rise and fall of his chest was steady and peaceful. He was asleep.

She turned to face him and smiled, the usual hard lines, the tension that was usually carved into his expression was all but washed away. Her heart softened as she watched him.

The mate bond between them pulsed faintly, it was a gentle thrum in her heart, but it also enveloped her mind. She smiled as the memories of the night rushed into her mind.

Once again, she felt safe... and whole.

She tried to sit up and the moment she did that, Lucien stirred, his heavy eyelids fluttering at her motion. In moments, his eyes