Evangeline stretched lazily as a soft yawn escaped her lips.
She blinked up at the sturdy wooden beams of the cottage ceiling. Sunlight spilled in through the small window, painting the room in warm, golden hues. Birds chirped merrily outside and for a moment she wondered if she was in heaven.
She shifted and felt something soft and warm snuggled against her body.
A snake?
She glanced down sharply, and exhaled with relef when she saw Willow purring contentedly, her tiny black form snuggled close.
"Good morning, my strong little darling," Evangeline whispered, petting the cat's head gently.
The moment of peace did not last.
Memories of the night before came crashing down on her like a tidal wave. The battle with the werewolves, Candor's viciousness, the softness of his lips on her neck, the feel of his fangs sinking into her skin, the… pleasure.