The morning light filtered through the floor-to-ceiling windows, painting the penthouse in shades of gold and amber. Alex woke slowly, the warmth of Artemia and Saeko nestled against him. Blue hair spilled across his chest, dark hair tangled with his arm. Their breathing was slow, peaceful, synchronized.
He lay still, savoring the moment.
Artemia stirred first. Her eyes fluttered open, meeting his gaze. A soft smile curved her lips. She reached up and touched his face, her fingers tracing the line of his jaw. He turned his head and kissed her palm.
Saeko shifted, her dark eyes opening. She looked at them, her smile gentle. She leaned up and pressed a kiss to his shoulder.
They lay together for a while longer, wrapped in the quiet intimacy of the morning.
Then they rose.
---
The day began with a walk.
