Back in the Hawthorne estate, Damien laid in bed with Eloise as they awaited the start of dinner. After long hours of searching for Iris since his return, he cherished his time alone with Eloise.
Eloise rested her head on Damien's chest, listening to the rhythm of his heartbeat, while getting a bit of rest before she would have to leave the chamber. She had been running around all morning since her arrival, keeping Rosalie distracted while still worrying about Iris and Damien's well-being.
Eloise was close to drifting off to sleep, and Damien knew it too.
Damien stroked Eloise's hair, his fingers brushing through the soft strands, trying to help relax her. If she missed dinner, then it wasn't a cause for concern. She needed the rest.
Not knowing of Damien's plan, Eloise's eyes remained open.
"What is on your mind?" Damien asked.
