Chapter 22

Alana’s POV. I stirred, gradually becoming aware of the warm embrace of sunlight washing over my skin. A soft yawn escaped my lips as I stretched my arms above me, then rolled onto my right side, unintentionally snuggling closer to Alec. His scent enveloped me, and I momentarily basked in it before a rush of awareness swept over me. What were we doing sharing a bed? Panic set in. With a pounding headache threatening to split my skull in two, I strained to recollect the events of the previous night. My memories flooded back, and I carefully extricated myself from Alec's arms. Glancing at him, I found him still deeply asleep, his long lashes delicately resting on his skin. One of his hands lay over mine, which was gently positioned on his chest. I could feel the reassuring rhythm of his heartbeat beneath my palm. The sight was undeniably intimate, and I couldn't help but appreciate how considerate he had been, removing my shoes, earrings, and hair clip, all neatly placed on my nightsta