The sunlight filtering through the window was warm and golden, casting a gentle glow over the room.
Aeliana lay nestled against me on the oversized chaise in my private sitting room, her head resting on my shoulder, her legs tangled with mine.
The soft fabric of the blanket draped over us was the only thing separating us from the world outside. For once, I allowed myself to let time slow, each moment savoured as though it were the most precious thing I owned.
Aeliana stirred slightly, her fingers idly tracing circles on my arm. "You're too quiet," she murmured, her voice carrying that half-dreamy quality that always made me smile.
"Just thinking," I replied, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. Her auburn hair still carried the faint scent of lavender from the bath we had shared earlier.
