chapter 48

The next morning, a familiar heaviness rested on my chest as I opened my eyes. Noah's beautiful face came into view. I don't know when this awkward position became our usual way of waking up—when awkwardness turned into comfort. But now, I no longer feel shy when I see him like this.

Even though there has never been a single instance where he caught me awake before he did, I know Noah well enough to be sure that, if he ever did, he wouldn't shy away. From the way he talks so casually about our relationship, one thing is clear to me—he genuinely considers me his wife, in every real sense a husband considers his wife.

Noah stirred in his sleep, and I quickly closed my eyes. As part of his usual morning routine, he kissed my nose and whispered a soft good morning near my ear.

Sometimes, I wonder if he knows I'm already awake and just chooses not to call out my act.