The late morning sun pushed softly through the bedroom curtains, filling the room with a warm golden light that brushed against the walls like a gentle reminder that the night had finally passed. Aria blinked awake slowly. Her body felt heavy, but not in pain. Just tired. Weighted from the remnants of the dream, the fear, and the medications the doctor had administered.
She lay still for a moment, listening.
The room was quiet.
Too quiet.
"Luca?" she murmured softly.
No answer came, though she saw his presence everywhere. His jacket draped over the chair. His phone on the nightstand. The indentation on the mattress where he had sat all night while watching her breathe.
But he was not in the room.
Aria exhaled slowly.
He must have stepped out for a moment.
To shower.
To speak to the doctor.
To command the guard rotation he insisted on doubling.
