When Sebastian awoke, he found himself in the familiar confines of his room within Reign's Castle. As he stirred, his initial impulse to leap out of bed was halted by the sight of Elle beside him. She occupied a chair, her hand tenderly clasped around his.
Slowly, he extended his hand, fingertips grazing her delicate features. And when he detected the gentle rhythm of her breathing, Sebastian felt an overwhelming surge of relief that literally sent shivers down his spine.
Running his quivering hands over his face, he drew in a few deep breaths before gingerly slipping out of bed. Just as he began to lift her to tuck her into the bed, Elle's eyes fluttered open.
"Seb...?" she blinked in surprise. "Wait... why are you lifting me? Put me down; you're—"
Sebastian settled back onto the bed, cradling her in his arms and hugging her tightly. "I'm fine now. You healed me, didn't you?"
"Yes, but..."