Chapter 9 Caught In The Web

• Stefan awoke relaxed and satiated, his whole body filled with a delicious sense of well being. The glow spread through his limbs and into his chest, wrapping him in warmth. For a moment he let himself enjoy it, the rare comfort of peace. But it did not last for long.
• He reached across the bed for Aria and found only cool sheets. She was gone. A wave of loss crashed over him. Already he missed her. Then memory struck, sharp and unwelcome. He remembered exactly who she was. He swore softly into the empty room.
• Dragging himself upright, Stefan rubbed his face with both hands and glanced at the clock beside the bed. It was after midnight. His brows pulled together. When had he last fallen asleep with a woman beside him? It had been years. And why in God’s name did he have to choose this one, of all women?