Chapter 264: The New -
Lyan awoke to the soft light of dawn filtering through the curtains of Belle’s room. He blinked a few times, adjusting to the dim glow, and found himself surrounded by the peaceful forms of the women of the House of Roses. He felt a warmth beside him and turned to see Xena, her eyes already open and twinkling with amusement.
"Good morning," Xena whispered, her voice soft and teasing.
"Morning," Lyan replied, his voice still heavy with sleep. "Seems like you’re an early riser."
Xena chuckled quietly. "I couldn’t really sleep much after last night. You’ve got quite the stamina, Lyan."
Lyan grinned, stretching his arms above his head. "I could say the same about you."
They lay there for a few moments, enjoying the quiet intimacy of the morning. Xena’s fingers traced lazy patterns on Lyan’s chest, and he found himself relaxing into the gentle touch.
"Do you ever get tired?" Xena asked, her tone shifting to something more serious.
Lyan sighed, his eyes drifting to the ceiling. "Sometimes. But I don’t really have the luxury of slowing down, not with everything that’s happening. Not until we make our own home,"
Xena nodded, her expression thoughtful. "You know we’re all worried about you, right? Especially with the wounds you already have."
Lyan glanced down at the various cuts and bruises adorning his body, a testament to the battles he had fought. He smiled softly. "I know. But isn’t that what makes me sexier?"
Xena laughed, the sound light and melodious. "I suppose it does."