The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, golden glow over the room. I woke slowly, feeling the warmth of Carmen's body next to mine before I even opened my eyes.
Her arm was draped protectively over my waist, and I could feel the steady rise and fall of her breath.
For a moment, I just lay there, savoring the peace of the morning and the comfort of having her beside me.
But as the events of the day came rushing back to me, my heart grew heavy. Today was Carmen's last day in New York before she had to head back to Los Angeles for work.
I knew she had to go her responsibilities and commitments couldn't wait but the thought of her leaving left an ache in my chest that I couldn't shake.
I turned slightly to face her, careful not to wake her just yet. She looked so peaceful in her sleep, her dark hair splayed out across the pillow, her features relaxed in a way I rarely saw when she was awake.