Lirien's POV
The next morning felt heavier than usual, as if the air itself carried the weight of unspoken threats. I woke slowly, nestled securely in Vael's strong arms. His body was warm and solid against my back, one arm draped protectively over my waist, holding me close even in sleep. The faint trace of Davis's spiced alpha scent still lingered in the sheets and on the pillows, a reminder that he had slipped out early for work, leaving us wrapped in this quiet bubble of safety.
I shifted slightly, and Vael stirred immediately, as if some part of him had been awake and watching over me the whole time. He pressed a soft, lingering kiss to my temple, his lips warm and gentle.
"Good morning, my heart," he murmured, voice still rough and low from sleep. His hand stroked slowly up and down my side, soothing and possessive at the same time. "How did you sleep?"
