Before the world had fully awakened, and when the land was still a mere silhouette against the dawning day, Linus stirred, his senses immediately honing in on the warm presence beside him. Willow was curled against him, her copper hair spilling over the pillow like a fiery halo. Her slow, even breaths were a comforting rhythm, and Linus smiled, his chest swelling with a rare, quiet contentment.
Gently, he brushed a strand of hair from her face, his fingers lingering for a moment on her cheek. Her lashes fluttered, and her green eyes opened, meeting his with a sleepy warmth.
“Good morning,” she murmured, her voice husky with sleep.
“Good morning,” he replied, leaning down to press a soft kiss to her lips. The touch was tender, unhurried, and filled with the bond they’d sealed just days a
