The world outside was still cold and unforgiving as the volcanic winter kept the sky heavy with ash and the air crisp with chill.
But inside Unit 2101 of Building K12, in the warmth of the bed, Grace was anything but cold.
She stirred slightly, waking up from her deep slumber. The moment her consciousness returned to reality, she felt the slow, steady rise and fall of Dr. Kian's chest beneath her cheek. His arms were wrapped around her, firm yet gentle, as if he never wanted to let her go.
A rare feeling of peace settled over her. For over a year, she had been fighting, leading, surviving - never stopping long enough to simply exist.
But here, now, in his arms, she felt safe and... at peace.
She tilted her head slightly, letting her eyes roam over his sleeping face. His normally sharp features were relaxed, his breathing slow and even. His dark lashes fanned against his cheekbones, and his lips were slightly parted.
