Chapter 24. You Are Not Alone Anymore

Rae:

I wake up to the feeling of warmth.

A strong, steady heartbeat against my ear.

Arms wrapped around me like a shield against the world.

It takes me a second to realize where I am —

who I'm with.

S.

I'm in S’s arms.

I blink against the morning light filtering through the curtains.

He’s still asleep, his face softened, peaceful in a way I've never seen before.

Like the weight he always carries has been lifted for a moment.

I watch him sleep.

The sunlight spills through the half-open window, painting orange trails across his face. His features, so sharp and ruthless when awake, soften beneath the pale glow. His jaw, usually set tight with tension, is relaxed now. The faintest hint of stubble darkens his cheeks, a rough shadow I could lose myself in.

My fingers tremble slightly as I reach out, tracing the line of his brow, feather-light, terrified of waking him. But he doesn't stir. I guess he never