The golden morning light slipped gently through the thin curtains of the guest room, casting a soft warmth over the room. Blair stirred beneath the covers, her body still curled in the cocoon of a comforting sleep. The faint scent of blooming grapes and damp earth drifted in through the slightly open window. Outside, the world was awakening—a soft chorus of birds and the rustle of leaves in the breeze creating a peaceful symphony.
Reaching for the lightweight sweater at the foot of the bed, Blair pulled it over her shoulders and padded quietly toward the balcony. The morning air was crisp and cool, brushing against her skin like a whisper. From where she stood, Florence slowly stirred beneath the rising sun, rooftops glowing like copper and stone in the dawn light. She watched in stillnes
