章 188: You are a bad girl

As the first light of dawn crept into the small house on the hill, I felt Elena stirring beside me. Her breathing, steady and rhythmic, started to change, signaling her return to wakefulness.

I kept my arm wrapped around her, holding her close as I watched the soft glow of morning light play across her features. Her eyes fluttered open, and she smiled up at me, a hint of drowsiness still in her gaze.

"Good morning," I whispered, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.

"Good morning," she replied, her voice still husky from sleep. She shifted slightly, wincing as she moved her injured ankle.

"How's the ankle?" I asked, concern evident in my tone.

"Sore," she admitted, "but I really want to try hiking again today."

I frowned, not wanting her to push herself too hard. "Are you sure that's a good idea? I don't want you to hurt yourself more."

"I know, but I don't want to miss out on everything," she said, determination lighting up her eyes.