Sunlight spilled through the curtains, soft and golden, warming the room with its touch.
Gabriel was already awake, lying on his side, head propped on one arm as he watched Ethan stir.
Ethan blinked slowly, lashes fluttering before his eyes finally opened.
The moment he saw Gabriel, his face lit up with the kind of grin that could melt even the coldest morning.
His voice came out a drowsy whisper, full of eagerness.
"Date," he muttered, stretching like a cat. "I'm ready for you."
Gabriel's lips curved, a quiet laugh rumbling in his chest. "Then let's make it unforgettable."
Ethan rolled closer, burying his face briefly against Gabriel's shoulder before popping up again, hair a wild mess. "First things first—let's brush. Can't start a date with morning breath."
"Practical," Gabriel teased, sliding out of bed. He offered his hand, and Ethan took it immediately, springing up with all the energy of someone who had been waiting for this moment.
