The morning sun streamed through the window, casting a warm glow over the room. She stirred, gradually becoming aware of the warmth beside her. Slowly, she opened her eyes and saw Tom lying next to her, his face peaceful in sleep. The events of the previous night came rushing back, and her heart ached for him all over again.
She lay there for a moment, savoring the closeness, the steady rhythm of his breathing a soothing balm to her own turbulent emotions. But a glance at the clock jolted her from her reverie. She was late for work. Panic flared briefly, but she suppressed it, carefully slipping out of bed so as not to wake Tom.
Moving as quietly as possible, she gathered her clothes from the floor. She paused, catching a glimpse of Tom as he stirred, his eyes fluttering open. He looked
