Notes is asking for a password and I don't recall setting one up

I used to use Notes unprotected and then at some point a few years ago, Apple gave me the option of securing my notes using FaceID. I selected this option, but don't believe I selected a password at that time. For a few years, I used FaceID to unlock my notes. Now, with the latest OS, Notes on my iPhone (and elsewhere) is asking for a password to gain entry to my notes. I don't believe I ever set one up (although I could be wrong, it was years ago). Any way to recover these notes? Thanks