The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast gentle shadows across the room, wrapping Riley and Alistair in its warm embrace. The night outside was quiet, save for the occasional whisper of wind through the trees. Lying in bed, they faced each other, their bodies close, their breaths slow and synchronized. No words were spoken, yet the silence between them was comforting, filled with unspoken understanding and love.
Alistair studied Riley’s face, his fingers tracing light patterns on the back of her hand. She looked peaceful, yet deep in thought, her gaze locked onto his as if searching for something only he could give. He had never seen her look at him quite like this before—soft, contemplative, but sure.
“What’s on your mind?” Alistair finally asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Riley
