Allie
I woke before Chase.
For several seconds, I did not understand why the room felt different.
The curtains were still closed, but pale morning light entered through the edges. The bedside lamp had been switched off. My body felt warm beneath the blanket, and one strong arm rested loosely around my waist.
Then I remembered.
The kitchen.
The slow walk upstairs.
The questions.
The way Chase stopped the moment fear entered.
The way I chose to continue.
Heat spread across my face.
I remained completely still.
Chase slept behind me, his breathing deep and even. His chest rose against my back with each breath. His hand rested near my stomach, relaxed now instead of careful.
I should have felt awkward.
Maybe embarrassed.
Instead, the first emotion that reached me was calm.
No r
