111. (Luke POV)

Emerging from the grip of withdrawal felt like stepping out of a prolonged, oppressive darkness into the the sun. Each day unfolded like a delicate petal, revealing a touch more clarity, a shade less discomfort, and a gradual strengthening of both body and soul.

This journey back to myself was painstakingly slow, a path marked by frustration and impatience, but with each passing moment, I sensed the essence of who I once was piecing back together, bit by bit.

Lexi's perception of this transformation was unmistakable. Her gazes lingered, filled with a deep emotion that hadn't been there before. Her smiles radiated a warmth, an unspoken acknowledgment of the change she was witnessing. The way she looked at me spoke volumes; it was an evolving dance of glances, each one revealing her growing attraction to this reborn version of me – the Luke who once carried an air of confidence, who could draw laughter effortlessly, who stood unwavering in the face of life's challenges.

One evening, ne