Chapter 62

　　Serena 　　As I opened my eyes, Damon sleeping peacefully beside me. The room was dimly lit, and I could feel the weight of worry hanging in the air. Alexei and Ashford were nearby, their expressions a mix of relief and concern as they smiled upon seeing me open my eyes. I tried to shake off the grogginess as a sharp pain throbbed in my temple, struggling to piece together the events of the previous night that led me to this room. 　　Damon stirred from his sleep, and his eyes widened with relief as he noticed me awake. A broad smile spread across his face. 　　"Serena? Thank goodness you're awake!" he exclaimed, his happiness evident. He reached for my hands, holding them gently, and planted a gentle kiss on them, as if reassuring himself that I was truly okay. His touch felt nice and made me feel a bit better. His smile showed he was happy to see me, but there was also a hint of worry in his eyes. 　　“W-What happened?” I whispered as I held my head in my hands. Fragments of memories flash