Eira's POV
By the time we finally returned to the guest residence, the night had stretched deep and heavy, and exhaustion weighed on every part of me.
Raven had already fallen asleep, his small body relaxed, his breathing soft and steady. A quiet smile touched my lips at the sight of him. All I wanted now was to curl up beside him and surrender to sleep just as peacefully.
I was too tired to even think of changing. The dress clung to me, the sandals still on my feet, but I could not bring myself to care.
"Let me help you," Kael said softly.
I let out a tired yawn, my gaze drifting longingly toward the bed. "Can't we just skip it?"
"You will be uncomfortable in that dress," he replied.
Before I could protest further, he had already begun. His hands were gentle as he removed my sandals and loosened the dress. Then, without effort, he lifted me into his arms.
I leaned into him, my head resting against his shoulder as I breathed in his scent. Warm. Familiar. Comforting.
