Arda jolted awake, startled by the firm hand on her shoulder. Her eyes flew open to see Gillow beside her, dressed in pajamas, his tousled hair framing his sharp features.
She blinked in confusion. She had gone to bed alone the night before—when had he returned?
"What is it? You're having a bad dream?" he asked, his voice low but laced with concern.
"No, I was just startled," she murmured, her heartbeat slowing.
"Hmm. Anyway, it's morning," he said.
Arda rubbed her eyes, still disoriented. She hadn’t realized she’d slept so long. Sunlight was streaming faintly through the curtains.
"I didn’t see you come in," she said, her voice soft.
"I know. You were sleeping like a baby," Gillow replied, his lips curling into a slight smile. "But it’s already 7:30, and you’re still sleeping. I co
