The morning sunlight poured into the condo, illuminating the bedroom where Marnie and Michael had spent their first night fully adjusted to each other’s presence. Marnie stirred slowly, feeling the lingering warmth of Michael’s body beside hers. Unlike before, she didn’t feel afraid. She felt… complete, safe, and strangely empowered.
Michael, ever the early riser, had already prepared breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon floated into the bedroom, drawing Marnie out of her sleepy haze.
“You’re up late,” Michael said, a playful note in his voice as he noticed her stretching and yawning.
“I… I wanted to sleep a little more,” Marnie replied, brushing her hair out of her face. She couldn’t help but smile at him. “Besides, you’re always up before sunrise.”
He grin
