The Afterglow

Dawn stretched gently across the horizon, brushing the room with a tender wash of gold.

She lay still, wrapped in the hush of early morning, her auburn hair spilling like silk across the white pillow. A soft, drowsy smile curved at the edge of her lips. He was curled around her, his body a warm shelter against the fading shadows of night.

His fingertips traced a slow, reverent path along her arm, up the curve of her shoulder, lingering at the hollow of her neck.

Her smile deepened, blue eyes fluttering open with a quiet brightness.

She leaned into each touch, her whole being unfurling beneath the soft reassurance of his skin against hers.

He pressed a featherlight kiss to the side of her neck. She breathed out a sigh and nestled closer, finding that perfect place where she fit against him.

A whisper slipped between them, barely louder than the morning light. “Stay here with me for a bit.”

A warm murmur of “We have all the time we need, I'm right her."

He drew the cool white sheet up over their bodies, tucking them back into their little cocoon. His fingers threaded through her hair, smoothing it back as he pressed slow, lingering kisses along her shoulder.

Her breathing softened, deepened, syncing effortlessly with his.

The room grew quieter still, as though holding its breath to protect the moment.

Their eyes closed, they let themselves float, weightless, peaceful, drifting off together...