The following morning, the artificial sun rose slowly over the paradise floor, painting the sky in shades of rose and honey.
The couple woke up nestled in each other's embrace.
Gabriel's arms were wrapped around Lilith's waist, her back pressed to his chest. Her silver hair spilled across his shoulder, and her small horns rested just beneath his chin. His golden wings had unfurled slightly during the night, draping over them both like a feathered blanket. Her tattered dragon wings lay folded against her spine, rising and falling with each slow breath.
The cascade murmured in the distance. The exotic birds sang their morning songs. The flowers opened their petals to greet the false dawn.
Lilith stirred first. Her crimson eyes fluttered open, blinking against the soft light. She felt Gabriel's heartbeat against her back, steady and warm. A small smile curved her lips.
