## Hazel's POV
Morning light filtered through my bedroom curtains, casting soft shadows across Sebastian's sleeping face. I traced his features with my gaze—the strong line of his jaw, the dark lashes resting against his cheeks, the slight furrow between his brows even in sleep. The weight of what I had to do today pressed down on my chest like a stone.
Sebastian's eyes fluttered open, finding mine instantly. His lips curved into a sleepy smile that made my heart ache.
"Morning," he murmured, voice rough with sleep.
Instead of answering, I leaned down and kissed him, trying to memorize the feel of his lips against mine. He responded immediately, his hand sliding to the back of my neck, pulling me closer.
"I missed waking up with you," he said when we broke apart, brushing my hair back from my face.
I forced a smile. "How was your trip?"
His expression darkened slightly. "Complicated. But nothing I couldn't handle."
