Chapter 153: Deceptive Loyalties

Mariana stirred from her slumber, the warmth of Tiago's embrace cocooning her in a sense of security she hadn't felt in ages. As she blinked away the remnants of sleep, her gaze fell upon Tiago's face, his features softened by the gentle light filtering through the curtains. But it was the dark circles beneath his eyes that caught her attention, a subtle indication of the fatigue he must have endured while watching over her. Hesitating for a moment, Mariana contemplated waking him, a twinge of guilt tugging at her heart. She didn't want to burden him further with her own struggles, yet the thought of leaving him to face his exhaustion alone filled her with a sense of unease. With a reluctant sigh, Mariana gently shifted in Tiago's arms, attempting to disentangle herself without disturbing his much-needed rest. But as she moved away, she felt his grip tighten, a reflexive response to her departure. A brief struggle ensued as Mariana tried to free herself, her frustration mounting w