THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM
Glande's POV
The first rays of morning sunlight slipped through the sheer curtains, bathing the hotel suite in a warm golden glow.
For a long moment, I didn't open my eyes.
I simply listened.
The quiet hum of the city outside.
The steady rhythm of his breathing.
The comforting warmth surrounding me.
A small smile found its way to my lips.
Last night didn't feel like a dream.
It had been real.
For the first time in years, I had allowed myself to stop running from my feelings.
I slowly opened my eyes.
Alex was already awake.
Instead of moving, he lay on his side, his head resting against the pillow, watching me with the softest smile.
"Good morning," he whispered.
I smiled back.
"How long have you been awake?"
"A while."
"And you've just been sta
