Isabelle leaned on the balcony railing and looked out across the city at the festival. She leaned her cheek on one hand as she observed.
The sunlight reflected off the golden curls of Phoenix's hair and made his skin glow. He wore a silky cream robe loosely tied. She watched his profile as he stood, lost in his own thoughts, arms braced on the rail next to her, brow furrowed slightly.
He turned, catching her staring at him, and smiled. He extended an arm, beckoning.
Isabelle moved into the circle of his arm, snuggling. It was early. Too early for anyone else to be awake, she figured. Even Snowball hadn't stirred yet, dozing curled on Tenshi's belly.
She was only awake due to how early she'd fallen asleep the night before. And Phoenix...he'd been awake already, looking out on the balcony, when she woke.
He bent his head to kiss her, murmuring his name. Then he pulled her tight and held her against him. They stayed like that a long while.