Eirik's trembling breaths began to even out, the uneven cadence giving way to an uneasy, fragile rhythm. His tear-streaked face softened in sleep, though the faint twitching of his brows betrayed the lingering torment that haunted him even in rest.
Kaelix sat upright, his arms still wrapped protectively around his consort. He couldn't bring himself to let go, not yet, as if the simple act of holding Eirik could somehow anchor them both amidst the storm of their shared pain. The air in the room felt heavy, oppressive, as if the weight of Eirik's anguish had soaked into the very walls.
Carefully, Kaelix shifted, easing Eirik's weight onto the plush pillows piled at the head of the bed. His movements were slow, deliberate, ensuring he didn't disturb the tenuous peace that sleep had granted his beloved.
