The night was peaceful; however, Elaine woke up slowly to the smell of something burning, loud voices, and a smoke alarm beeping outside the room. She gently tossed the comforter back, blinking a few times to register where she was, before walking to the door to open it.
She stepped into the hall, wandering toward the kitchen where the sound and smell were originating from, nearly colliding with Luca. He stood in his doorway like a ghost that had just risen from the dead. His hood was partially over his head, and his eyes were half-closed. It took a moment for Elaine to register that he had Haven around his neck like a furry scarf.
The cat was staring into the kitchen with her tail flicking as Elaine blinked at Luca. He registered her, glancing in her direction.
"...Morning," he murmured, his voice rough with sleep.
Before she could reply, Haven chirped loudly and launched herself off Luca's shoulders, sprinting down the hall into the kitchen.
