~Zayn's POV~
I woke up slowly, the first light of dawn filtering in, but I didn't open my eyes. The heavy, warm weight of Evric was still draped across me, his leg tangled with mine. The deep sleep had worn off, and the physical awareness returned instantly. I felt the unmistakable pressure of his morning erection—a hard, hopeful sign of life and desire.
I sensed him stirring and quickly tensed, pretending to sleep. I wanted to watch how he would behave now that he was physically at ease again.
Evric stirred, and a moment later, I felt his lips brush my ear. "Good morning, baby," he whispered, his voice low and drowsy.
He didn't move much, content just to feel me there. He started tracing patterns in my hair with his fingers, a gentle, soothing rhythm. Then his hand moved to my face, his thumb running lightly along my jaw, checking if I was awake without daring to interrupt my rest. His touch was so familiar, so loving, it almost made me flinch.
