Arthur woke slowly, the world around him fading into focus as his senses returned. His body ached—his limbs heavy, muscles stiff—but there was a strange warmth next to him. Soft, steady breaths reached his ears, and he turned his head slightly to see Lily, curled up beside him.
She was sleeping like a dove, her chest rising and falling with each quiet breath. For a moment, Arthur simply watched her, taking in the sight. It had been so long since he'd seen her like this, so peaceful. She still scrunched up her face in her sleep, just like she did when they were kids. He couldn't help but smile at the memory, a flicker of warmth spreading through his chest despite the lingering fatigue.
