55. Morning After
Zander
Morning light filtered weakly through the thin motel curtains, casting a dusty glow over the room. I woke up with Mara curled against my chest, her leg thrown over mine, her breathing slow and steady. For a few perfect seconds, everything felt right. Her bare skin pressed to mine, the scent of her hair, the way her fingers rested possessively over my heart even in sleep. After a month apart, having her here felt like a miracle I didn’t deserve.
I tightened my arm around her waist and pressed a kiss to the top of her head. She stirred, making a soft sound that went straight to my chest. Her eyes fluttered open, and when she looked up at me, a sleepy smile spread across her face.
“Hi,” she whispered.
“Morning, baby.” My voice came out rough. I brushed a strand o
