When Alaric got back to their chamber, Daphne was still asleep. She slept on her side, hugging a pillo. Just seeing her like that loosened something tight in his chest.
He let out a slow breath.
Quietly, he changed out of his clothes and into something comfortable. Then he crossed the room and climbed onto the bed.
Carefully, he pulled her toward him. She stirred almost at once.
"Ric…" she murmured, half-asleep.
"I'm here," he answered immediately.
Her body relaxed when she heard his voice. She shifted closer, instinctively fitting against him. He leaned down and kissed her, slow and gentle at first.
She responded without hesitation.
That simple response brought him so much relief. She was still here, still his, still reaching for him without fear.
He kissed her again, placing his hand on her waist.
"You're mine," he whispered. "Only mine."
She made a small sound against his lips, she was barely awake but present.
