The next morning, the chamber was still and quiet. Ashen lay deep in sleep, his grip so tight around Lumina's hand as if she would run away before he woke up
Lumina stirred, turning slightly, trying to free herself without waking him. She tugged once, twice, but his hold remained stubborn. Her
Her lips pressed together in a faint pout of frustration as she carefully pried at his fingers.
The door creaked softly. Stella slipped inside, carrying fresh water and clothes, only to pause at the sight before her. A slow grin curved on her lips as she caught Lumina's struggle.
"My lady," she whispered, amused, "if you keep tugging like that, he may wake and think you are trying to escape him."
Lumina's cheeks warmed. She gave one last gentle pull until at last his hand loosened just enough for her to slip free.
She stood quickly, smoothing her gown, as if that would hide what Stella had already seen.
