Martina stayed in Elias’s lap longer than she intended, lulled by the rhythmic motion of his fingers threading through her hair. The morning light shifted, stretching shadows across the room, and for once, she let herself enjoy the stillness.
But eventually, the quiet became too much.
Martina sighed, shifting slightly so she could sit up. Elias let her move, though his hand lingered against her waist as if to keep her close.
“You really don’t have anywhere else to be?” she teased, watching his face for any sign of impatience.
Elias smirked. “I think you like having me here.”
She rolled her eyes, but her lips twitched. “Maybe.”
Elias studied her for a long moment before reaching out to brush a stray lock of hair behind her ear. “You should eat again.”
Martina groaned, leaning her hea
