Golden striations appeared on the linens as the gentle light of morning crept through the bedroom window. With her body curled up against Ethan's warmth, Lily woke up. For a minute, there were no dangers, no Syndicate, and no Adrien Voss in the outer world. Under her face, she could only hear the steady beat of Ethan's heart.
However, reality has a way of resurfacing.
Ethan was already conscious, slowly moving his fingertips across her back. He said, "You were talking in your sleep."
Lily leaned on her elbow and wiped the sleep from her eyes. "Had I?"
His eyes were kind yet inquisitive as he nodded. "You mentioned my name."
She gulped, not knowing if she should confess that she dreaded losing him even in her fantasies. She faked a little grin instead. "I guess I just like to say that."