Rui settled back against Shen's warmth, her eyelids growing heavy once more.
The steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her cheek proved more effective than any sleeping draught, and consciousness slipped away without the usual struggle against restless thoughts.
When she next stirred, golden sunlight streamed through the chamber windows, painting warm patterns across the bedding.
Rui's eyes fluttered open, immediately registering the unfamiliar sensation of deep, uninterrupted rest.
No nightmares. No jarring awakenings. Just peaceful, dreamless sleep.
"Good morning," Shen's voice rumbled beneath her ear, though something in his tone carried an edge of urgency.
Rui lifted her head, blinking away the lingering drowsiness as she registered the bright light flooding the room.
"What time is it?"
"Past midday."
Rui bolted upright, panic flooding her system as the implications crashed over her.
"Midday? Shen, why didn't you wake me? We've lost half the day!"
