Chapter 49: The Angelic Devil
Lydia still lay on the bed, her body warm under the thick blanket, but her heart felt cold and restless. Ivan was beside her, still and quiet, his chest rising and falling peacefully as he slept. She turned her head slightly to look at him.
There were so many questions swirling in her head.
Did he hurt someone? Was it blood from a person or something else? She remembered the streak of red in his hair. It hadn’t looked like much, but it was enough to make her heart twist with unease.
She shut her eyes tightly, trying to push the thoughts away. Maybe I’m just overthinking. Maybe there’s a reason. A good reason. But the feeling wouldn’t go. Something felt wrong. Not with him... but around him. Like a shadow she couldn’t see clearly.
Beside her, Ivan stirred and slowly opened his eyes. His gaze softened when it landed on her. "Good morning," he said in his calm, deep voice.
Lydia looked away.
He noticed.
His hand reached over to brush a strand of hair from her cheek, but she pulled slightly back. It wasn’t obvious, but it was enough. His hand paused in the air.
"Is something wrong?" he asked gently.
"No," she said too quickly. "I’m okay."
He didn’t believe her. She could tell from the way his eyes lingered. But he didn’t ask again. He only nodded once, quietly stood up, and left her chambers without another word.