Caden stirred as the first light of morning filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room. His eyes fluttered open, his body heavy with sleep, but there was something different today. He couldn’t quite place it at first—his mind was still foggy, still caught in the remnants of dreams. But then, he remembered.

He shifted slightly, and the familiar warmth beside him reminded him of Rose. Her soft breathing, her body pressed gently against his, her scent—familiar and comforting—was all he needed to anchor himself to reality. Last night, the kiss, the quiet connection—it had felt so right, like they were already bound together in ways that went beyond just physical touch. It wasn’t just a kiss; it was a promise. The kind of promise that settled deep in his chest.

But as his eyes scanned the room, reality crept in. He felt a dull throb at his temples, a reminder of the late night, the weight of everything still unresolved, the things left unsaid. Caden shifted again, trying not to disturb Rose, his fingers brushing against her skin as he tried to find a more comfortable position.