The sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting soft gold over the woven walls of the treehouse. Jude stirred as the warmth crept across his bare chest, a slow sigh escaping his lips before he opened his eyes. The scent of morning dew, bark, and the faint sweetness of ripened fruit drifted in with the breeze. Beside him, Emma was still asleep, her arm lazily draped over his waist, her breath steady and quiet. Her hair tickled his skin, and he smiled to himself, brushing a kiss against her forehead before slipping gently out from under her.
The treehouse creaked softly as he moved, careful not to wake the others. Down below, the forest was already alive with the sounds of birds and rustling leaves. A calm morning. No screams, no sudden crashes, no heavy fog choking the air. Just peace.