As the first rays of dawn filtered through the curtains, I stirred from the depths of sleep, feeling the warmth of Zephara's body curled around mine. The soft rhythm of her breathing was like a gentle lullaby, soothing me as I reluctantly emerged from the cocoon of dreams.
For a moment, I simply lay there, relishing the sensation of Zephara's arms wrapped around me, the steady beat of her heart echoing against my own. But as consciousness fully returned, so did the awareness of the day ahead, of the tasks and challenges awaiting us.
With a gentle sigh, I shifted slightly, careful not to disturb Zephara's peaceful slumber. Slowly, I extricated myself from her embrace, feeling a pang of reluctance at the loss of her warmth. But duty called, and there were things that needed to be done.
