[EARLY MORNING – STORM ENDING]
Alex woke up with a gray light filtering through the small window.
The storm had passed—only a light drizzle remained.
The boat swayed gently.
He looked toward the opposite bed.
Raven and Emily were still asleep.
Very close together—Emily's head on Raven's shoulder, Raven's arm around Emily's waist.
An image… unexpectedly tender.
Alex didn't look away immediately.
Because honestly…
He didn't want to.
He knew what was happening.
He wasn't dense—just… complicated.
Two incredible women. Both interested in him. He interested in both.
Normally that would be a dream come true.
Except he didn't know how to handle it without hurting someone.
But that problem is for later, he thought. After the Sanctuary. After reducing the corruption. After not being 6% away from permanently losing control of my own body.
Priorities.
He got up quietly—trying not to wake anyone.
He failed.
Emily opened her eyes—saw Alex watching them.
