" I am going to wash up first . " As Aurora gathered her thoughts and mustered the courage to face the aftermath of her intimate encounter with Gabriel , she felt a deep sense of embarrassment wash over her . The vulnerability they had shared had left her feeling exposed and self-conscious early in the morning . However , she knew she had to compose herself and act as normally as possible . With a mix of relief and apprehension , Aurora excused herself from the bed , careful not to provoke Gabriel any further . As the soft rays of the morning sun began to filter through the curtains , she couldn't help but see them as a symbol of a fresh start , an opportunity to leave behind any discomfort and move forward .
" Okay . " Unlike before , Gabriel no longer attempted to anchor her to himself
