Misa stirred awake from another one of Tika’s memories, mindful of a hand gripping her wrist, gently prying her off of something warm and hard and wonderful. She groaned and tightened her arm, snuggling closer to Royle’s bare chest. A slight chuckle buzzed against her cheek.
“Misa, I have to go,” Royle whispered. He brushed back her hair and kissed her temple.
“No,” Misa muttered. “Stay.”
“Sleep. I know you barely fell asleep. You can stay in bed until I return.” He continued stroking her hair, her face.
Misa frowned. She squinted one eye open. “Where’re you going? It’s Dailib.”
“There are a couple of things I have to take care of at the purgehouse.”
Misa groaned again. “Why do you have to be the captain?”
Royle sighed. He sank back onto the bed, scoo
