The dawn was soft and gold, the air still carrying the chill of the night before. Gentle sunlight streamed through the paper windows of their room, casting patterns on the floor.
Saeko stirred first, her eyes fluttering open to find herself nestled against Alex's chest. His arm was draped around her shoulder, his breathing calm and steady. For a fleeting moment, she simply lay there—listening to his heartbeat, feeling its quiet rhythm beneath her ear.
It had been an eventful night—quiet, but deeply human. For once, there were no blades, no monsters, no blood. Just peace.
A rare, precious peace.
But peace never lasted long in their world.
When Alex opened his eyes, he found her staring up at him with that same unreadable expression she always had after waking—half composed, half disarmed.
"Morning," he said quietly.
She gave a soft nod, sitting up and brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Morning."
