The first light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. I stirred, slowly becoming aware of the warmth and weight of Elena nestled against me. She was in my arms, her head resting on my shoulder, her breath even and peaceful. For a moment, I just lay there, savoring the closeness, the quiet intimacy of the morning.
In the stillness, the events of the previous night felt almost like a dream. The kiss, the confrontation with Sydney and my mother, the silent vows Elena and I had exchanged as we fell asleep. It was a lot to process, but holding Elena now, everything felt right, as if this was where I was meant to be.
But reality called. Today was a busy day, filled with meetings and responsibilities. I had to get up and face the world, no matter how much I wanted to stay in bed with Elena. Gently, I extricated myself from her embrace, trying not to wake her. She stirred slightly but didn't wake, her face relaxing back into peaceful slumber.
