?Chapter 1456:


    “I’m alright. Really. It’s nothing. Don’t worry about me.”


    Cedric’s fists were clenched so hard his knuckles nched, and a savage light flickered in his eyes.


    “I swear, I’ll make them pay for this.”


    Later, Dani fell asleep in Cedric’s arms.


    He carried her upstairs, bathed her, and tucked her into the sheets.


    Only after she was safely asleep did he copse beside her, utterly spent. For a long while, hey there, eyes fixed on her peaceful face.


    A restless fog hung over Dani, her thoughts tangled and her sleep fitful. When she finally blinked her eyes open, she found Cedric nted at her bedside, watching her with unwavering attention. Night had already fallen, wrapping the room in darkness.


    Turning to the nightstand, Dani squinted at the clock—it was just past one in the morning.


    For more than four hours, Cedric hadn’t left her side.


    Fatigue painted his eyes red, the toll of sleeplessness written across his face. Today’s ordeal hadn’t left Dani shaken so much as on edge; in truth, it was Cedric whose fear ran deepest.


    Pulling the nket back, Dani gave a quiet signal, inviting him.


    “Come here.”


    Cedric hesitated, blinking as he read the meaning in her gesture.


    “Usually when you’re this unsettled, you prefer to be alone, don’t you? I’ll stay here and keep watch instead.”


    Dani regarded him—handsome in the dim light, worry etched into every line of his face.


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    Right then, Dani was simply a girl lost to the night, vulnerable and spooked by the storm. To Cedric, she seemed heartbreakingly fragile, as if she could crumble with the slightest touch.


    Sympathy welled up in his chest.


    “You’re not just anybody,” Dani whispered, voice soft and earnest.


    “Please,e lie with me.”


    Only after hearing those words did Cedric rise and join her.


    The moment he realized he hadn’t showered, he darted into the bathroom for a rapid rinse. Clean and refreshed, he slid into bed beside her. In the thick darkness, her voice was soft but certain.


    “Hold me.”


    Cedric’s arms found their way around her, pulling her gently into his embrace. Dani’sshes fluttered closed, her breath warm against his skin.


    She drew closer, pressing her lips to his in a tender kiss.


    Cedric froze, unsure whether to respond. On any other night, her affection would have sent his heart soaring. Tonight, caution ruled him. The events of the day lingered, and he worried she might still be fragile. He couldn’t help but fear that the trauma might haunt her.


    Sensing his hesitation, Dani whispered, “I won’t let it get to me.”


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