Aurelia woke to the warmth of Hades still wrapped around her. His arm was draped over her waist, holding her close, his slow, steady breaths tickling the back of her neck. For a moment, she stayed there, savoring the peace of it—of him. But as the memories of yesterday's training came rushing back, the guilt gnawed at her again.
She had lost control. She had let her dragon take over, and Lator had paid the price for it.
Carefully, she slipped out of Hades' embrace, pulling the blanket over him before getting up. The air was cool against her skin as she dressed quietly, fastening the clasps of her tunic. Just as she was pulling on her boots, Hades stirred, his golden eyes cracking open.
"You're up early," he murmured, his voice thick with sleep.
"I couldn't sleep," she admitted.
Hades propped himself up on an elbow, watching her. "Aurelia—"
"I need to see Lator," she said, cutting him off gently. "I need to make sure he's okay."