Chapter 74 – In Silence, In Embrace
Morning crept in gently through the dancing curtains, stirred by the breeze. Soft sunlight slipped through, illuminating tiny dust particles drifting like shards of light. I opened my eyes slowly, and the first thing I saw... was Celestine’s sleeping face beside me.
Her expression was peaceful, far from the cold or stern demeanor she usually wore on the battlefield. No anger and no tension. Just... a hidden tenderness I’d never seen before.
Her silver hair was messy, with strands stuck to her cheek. Her breathing was steady, warm against the arm she rested on.
I exhaled quietly. Last night... after she cried in my arms, I brought her to her room. But when I tried to lay her on the bed, she wouldn’t let go of my shirt—even in her sleep. So I gave in, sat on the edge of the bed, and let her rest against my chest... until I too fell asleep with her, in a silence that felt... peaceful.
I looked down at her.
Was I too close?
My heart beat steadily, yet clearly—not out of fear, but out of this unfamiliar feeling. I reached out, gently brushing aside the strands of hair from her forehead.
And at that moment... her eyes fluttered open a little.
"Hmm... morning?" she murmured, her voice husky from sleep, but her lips curved into a faint smile.
I quickly averted my gaze, something odd stirring in my chest.
"G-good morning..." I replied, awkwardly.