The dawn crept in gently, spilling pale golden light across silk sheets and bare skin.
Seraphine stirred, her lashes fluttering open as the first warmth of sunlight kissed her cheeks. For a moment, she lay still, suspended in that fragile hush that only follows something earth-shaking. Her limbs ached, pleasantly sore, her body humming with memory.
Valen’s arms were still around her.
One rested beneath her head like a pillow, the other wrapped around her waist, anchoring her against him. His chest rose and fell behind her, slow and steady. His breath warmed the nape of her neck.
The room, once filled with wild moans and firelight, now lay blanketed in stillness. A gentle quiet that didn’t feel empty—but whole.
Safe.
Her fingers curled around his hand on instinct. He squeezed gently i
