Scarlet emerged into the room the next morning, her expression softening as she took in the sight of Rayla curled up on the couch, still asleep. The faint light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. Scarlet frowned, noticing the slight tension in Rayla’s posture even in sleep. She had been gone for three days, wrapped up in her heat with Nick. It had been impossible to reach out to Rayla during that period, and now that she was back, she could see the toll it had taken on her friend.
Nick lingered in the doorway, his presence calm and steady as always. He gave Scarlet a small nod, silently letting her know he’d give them space. Scarlet returned the nod, her focus entirely on Rayla as she crossed the room and gently shook her friend’s shoulder.
“Rayla,”
