The next morning, sunlight streamed through Lena’s curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. The soft chirping of birds filled the air, blending with the gentle rustle of leaves outside her window. She blinked awake, her body heavy with sleep, but the steady rise and fall of Grayson’s chest beneath her cheek made her heart swell.
He was still there.
Grayson’s arm was draped over her, holding her close. His breathing was slow and even, his face relaxed in sleep. Lena smiled, brushing a strand of hair from his forehead. He rarely looked this peaceful, always caught up in work, carrying the weight of responsibilities.
She decided not to wake him.
Slipping out of bed quietly, Lena padded to the kitchen, her feet cool against the hardwood floor. She tied her hair up in a messy bun and
