Malvoria woke up to an unfamiliar warmth pressed against her side. It was subtle at first, the slow realization creeping in as she blinked herself into consciousness.
The room was dimly lit, the first rays of morning filtering in through the heavy curtains. The air was still, the quiet of dawn settling over the castle like a well-worn cloak. For a moment, Malvoria allowed herself to bask in the rare tranquility.
And then she noticed it.
The weight against her chest. The slow, rhythmic breaths against her collarbone. The distinct, unmistakable scent of Elysia.
Malvoria's entire body tensed.
Very slowly, very carefully, she lowered her gaze.
Elysia was curled against her, one arm draped lazily over Malvoria's waist, her silver hair a tangled mess as it sprawled across the dark sheets. Her face was nestled against Malvoria's shoulder, her lips slightly parted in sleep, her breathing soft and even.
It was…
Malvoria swallowed.
Fine. This was fine. Completely fine.
