~Azaria~
I woke with tears still wet on my cheeks, the remnants of my dreams lingering in my mind. The room was dim, the first light of dawn barely filtering through the curtains. My heart ached with the memories of that day and the recent fear of almost losing Alaric.
I turned to find Alaric awake, watching me with concern in his eyes. He had reverted back to his human form, the pain in our bond significantly lessened. He scooted over, making space for me to lay beside him. Without a word, he wrapped his arms around me, holding me close.
"I'm so scared," I confessed, my voice trembling as the tears flowed anew. "I thought I was losing you. I thought I was too late."
He held me tighter, his hand gently stroking my hair. "We're okay, Azaria. I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere," he murmured softly. "I'm here to stay."
