The next morning, the sun peeked through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. Mariana stirred first, her eyes fluttering open as she stretched luxuriously in bed. She could feel the remnants of sleep clinging to her, but a deep thirst pulled her from the comfort of her sheets. With a soft sigh, she slipped out of bed, her bare feet making no sound on the cool floor as she headed to the kitchen for a glass of water.
As she walked, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off in the air, but she brushed it aside, attributing it to the hazy remnants of sleep. She poured herself a glass of water, taking a long, refreshing sip as she leaned against the counter.
Suddenly, she heard soft murmurs and the faint sound of rustling coming from the bedroom down the hall. Curiosity piqued, she placed her glass down, her mind racing with possibilities. Was Valeria awake? Had she and Wang Jian started their usual playful banter already?
