~Gianna's POV
The morning came slowly, like it was stretching itself awake along with us.
I opened my eyes and for a second I did not move. I just stayed there, feeling the warmth beside me, Matteo still asleep next to me like he had forgotten the world existed outside this room.
It was strange how peaceful it felt. There was no noise, no panic, and no rushing thoughts.
It was just him, breathing evenly beside me. I turned my head slightly and watched him for a moment. His face looked calmer when he was asleep, like all the sharp edges he carried during the day softened a bit at night.
I do not know how long I stayed like that before he shifted slightly and slowly opened his eyes.
The first thing he did was look at me and then he smiled.
That small smile made my chest feel lighter immediately.
"Morning," he said, voice still rough from sleep.
"Morning," I replied quietly.
