The next morning, I woke up to the sound of soft breathing, Carmen's warm body pressed against mine.
The sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow over the room. For a moment, I just lay there, soaking in the peacefulness of the morning, the feeling of being completely at ease with her.
I glanced over at the clock on the bedside table, noting that it was already well past the time we'd normally be up and about. But today... today felt different. It was one of those rare mornings where there was nothing pressing to do, nowhere to be, and I intended to take full advantage of it.
Carefully, I shifted to face Carmen, propping myself up on one elbow so I could watch her sleep. She looked so peaceful, her usually sharp features softened in the morning light.
Her dark hair was a mess, splayed across the pillow, and a small smile tugged at my lips as I took in the sight.