The next morning, I woke up before the sun fully broke through the sky, my mind still tangled in the events of the previous night. Faruk was still asleep, his arm draped over me like he always did, as though holding on to me even in his dreams. I carefully slid out from under his arm, feeling the lingering warmth of his body against mine. I hated how familiar it had become, how natural it felt to be held by him.
I sighed and got dressed quickly, deciding to make my way to the kitchen. I needed a cup of Matilda's special tea. By the time I reached the kitchen, Matilda was already there, preparing breakfast.
“Good morning, Luna,” she greeted me warmly. “I’m assuming you’d like your tea again?”
I nodded, offering her a small smile. “Yes, please.”
As Matildah prepared the tea, I sat down a
