The morning sun sliced through Natalia's curtains like it had a personal vendetta against my sleep schedule. My ribs ached. My muscles screamed. My everything hurt in ways I didn't know were possible.
But Natalia's warmth against my chest made all of it worthwhile.
She stirred. Her purple hair fanned across my shoulder. The white streaks caught the light and practically glowed.
"Stop staring at me while I sleep."
"I wasn't staring."
"Your heartbeat changed. I felt it."
Damn Covenant bond. No secrets between us anymore.
"Maybe I was just appreciating the view."
"Appreciate it quieter."
She burrowed deeper into my side. Her arm draped across my stomach. Her leg hooked over mine like she was afraid I'd escape.
I had approximately zero intention of escaping.
My phone buzzed on the nightstand. Then again. Then a third time in rapid succession.
"Ignore it."
"Could be important."
"Nothing is more important than sleep."
A fourth buzz. A fifth.
