I stirred slowly, the soft rhythm of someone breathing beside me gently pulling me from sleep. My lashes fluttered open, and the first thing I saw was him—Ciel. His face was calm, peaceful in a way I rarely saw. For a moment, I just stared.
The weight of last night settled into me, warmth and embarrassment flooding my cheeks again. I tried to shift away, quietly, but the movement made me wince.
"Ah—" I gasped softly, my body still sore.
He opened his eyes the instant I moved, as if he'd been awake the whole time.
"Good morning, my love," he said, his voice low and smooth as honey. He smiled down at me with a tenderness that made my heart twist.
"Morning," I murmured, attempting to sit up again, only to let out another soft wince.
Ciel was instantly concerned. "Are you alright, my love?" he asked, brushing my hair back gently, his voice filled with worry.
"I'm okay," I replied weakly, trying to force a small smile.
