-Sebastian Lightwood:
I woke up to quiet.
For a moment, I just lay there, staring at the ceiling, trying to figure out what felt different. I fell asleep while reading with Elias, cuddled close to me with his arms wrapped around my arm.
My room felt still.
I pushed myself up, running a hand through my hair, and glanced toward the doorway. Elias wasn't there. He was supposed to be here in our room.
I swung my legs over the side of the bed and listened carefully.
There.
Faint voices.
From the kitchen.
I stood and stepped out into the hallway, following the sound. The closer I got, the clearer it became—low murmuring, the clink of dishes, something sizzling softly. I slowed my steps before I reached the doorway, leaning slightly against the wall as I looked inside.
Elias and Aurelian were standing side by side at the counter.
For a second, I just watched.
