The town had settled into the quiet hum of the night, the occasional hoot of an owl breaking the stillness.
Kael lay on his back, one arm resting over his forehead, his breathing even as he hovered on the edge of sleep. Laura, however, was anything but restful. She shifted under the covers, rolling onto her side, then onto her back again. Every so often, she would sigh quietly, glancing toward her husband, waiting for a response that never came.
Minutes passed like this before she finally gave in.
"Dear," she murmured, nudging his shoulder lightly.
He stirred but didn't fully wake, mumbling something incoherent.
"Kael," she tried again, firmer this time.
His eyes blinked open lazily, and he turned his head to face her. His silver eyes, usually sharp and calculating, were hazy with sleep. "What is it?" he muttered, voice low and rough.
Laura hesitated, then exhaled. "Are you still displeased with me?"