Chapter 22

Claire's POV I woke slowly, consciousness returning in gentle waves. My body felt deliciously sore, each twinge a reminder of the night before. Instinctively, I reached across the bed for Theo's warmth, but found only cool sheets. The other side of the bed was empty and already cold. Memories of the previous night came flooding back—the tenderness in Theo's eyes as he held me, the fierce protectiveness that had radiated from him. It had been incredible, a connection that went beyond physical, and I couldn't help but want more as I remembered how he'd hit my g-spot every single time. I've ever had anything like this with anyone. That's when I noticed the folded piece of paper on the nightstand beside me. I reached for it, recognizing Theo's bold, elegant handwriting: *Claire, Had to step out for an early meeting. Ordered breakfast for you, should arrive shortly. Rest. I'll call later. -T* Brief and efficient, just like him. Yet the fact that he'd thought to leave a note and order breakf