Morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the guest room. Luke blinked his eyes open, exhaling deeply as he pushed himself up from the bed. Another day in Virencia. Another day closer to whatever lay ahead.
He sat up properly and stretched, his joints popping slightly as he shook off the remnants of sleep. A glance to the side told him that Ilyrana was still fast asleep, her breathing slow and steady. She had curled slightly under the sheets, ears twitching faintly as if lost in a dream.
Luke smirked. He'd let her sleep a little longer, but she couldn't stay in bed all day. He got himself ready first, washing up, changing into fresh clothes, and shaking off the last traces of grogginess. Once he was done, he considered waking Ilyrana—but before he could move toward her, a sudden knock at the door made him pause.
