ELIANA'SPOV
My eyes opened gradually, my vision still unclear, shapes blending into shadows. For a few seconds I didn't move. Didn't speak. Just breathed.
Slow.
Careful.
Heavy.
Then I noticed the dark figure beside me.
At first it was just a silhouette. Tall. Still. Covered in that familiar dark cloak that seemed to carry authority even in silence.
I didn't need long to know who it was.
Don.
As my sight slowly adjusted, his features became clearer. He was standing next to the bed, his gaze fixed on me with an intensity that made it hard to pretend I was still unconscious.
He wasn't speaking.
Just watching.
Studying.
Like he was trying to read something beneath my skin.
There was no panic on his face. No visible concern. Just that cold, controlled expression he always wore when something mattered more than he wanted people to know.
I managed to turn my head slightly on the pillow, my body protesting immediately.
Weak.
That was the first thing I noticed.
Not pain.
