章 68: Chapter 68: 68

The next morning arrived with its customary intrusion, as the sun's warm golden light streamed through the curtains and gently kissed Alfonso's sleeping face. He stirred under the sunlight's persistent caress, a disgruntled murmur escaping his lips as he attempted to shield his eyes from the intrusive rays.

"Damnable daystars," he grumbled, voice husky from sleep, "same as usual."

Groaning, he fumbled for the clock on his dresser, its digital numbers declaring that it was 7:30 in the morning. A reluctant sigh escaped him, marking the official start of another day.

Alfonso carefully extricated himself from the tangled sheets, doing his utmost to avoid disturbing his peacefully slumbering wife. With quiet precision, he slid out of the bed, feeling the coolness of the hardwood floor beneath his feet.

A soft smile touched his lips as he glanced back at his wife, her face serene in repose. Not wanting to disturb her slumber, he left the room.