Alexander:
I woke to warmth, gentle breathing, and a calm that I would never want to think about leaving.
It was not the kind that came from thick blankets or heated rooms, but the quiet, steady warmth of her curled against me, breathing slow and even, lashes resting against flushed cheeks. Alessia looked peaceful in sleep, like the world had finally loosened its grip on her.
I smiled without meaning to.
Carefully, I brushed my thumb along her arm, then leaned down and pressed a kiss to her temple. She stirred, murmuring something unintelligible before blinking her eyes open.
“Good morning,” I said softly.
She smiled, sleepy, genuine, and leaned up to kiss me. It was slow, unhurried, the kind of kiss that made time irrelevant. I kissed her back, letting myself savor it, my hand resti
