The first light of dawn crept through the shutters, a soft gold cutting through the cool gray of early morning.
Alina stirred from her dreams, only to feel her breath catch. Something heavy and warm pressed against her chest. She blinked awake, pink lashes fluttering, and found a pair of pale arms wound tightly around her.
Ariel.
The blonde woman's golden hair spilled across the pillow like sunlight scattered in silk. She was fast asleep, clinging to Alina as if to a lifeline.
"Really…" Alina muttered, her voice thick with sleep and irritation. She pried at Ariel's arm, frowning. "Every night it's the same. Can't you sleep without holding someone?"
The older woman only mumbled something unintelligible and snuggled closer. "Mm… Little Lily, why are you awake already?" she murmured drowsily, still half-dreaming.
Alina's patience snapped. "Let go."
