The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains in long, golden threads, casting soft lines across the bed. Kai stirred first, feeling the warm weight of her against him—her cheek still resting on his chest, her breath calm and even. For a moment, he just looked at her, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
She had fallen asleep in his arms the night before without a word. No resistance, no distance. But not surrender either. It was something else. Something unreadable in her silence.
Kai slowly slipped out from under her, careful not to wake her. He pulled the blanket gently over her shoulder, smoothing it once before leaving the room.
By the time she woke, the bed was empty, but she found a note by her side.
"Breakfast will be ready in ten. Don't make me come carry you." —K
She stared at the note, her fingers resting lightly on the handwriting. Then, quietly, she got up.
