Tackled by You

Chapter 41 – Morning Light

The morning sun filtered through thin curtains, casting soft gold across the hotel bed. Andrea stirred first, eyes fluttering open to the gentle rhythm of Sheik's breathing beside her.

For a long while, she didn't move.

She just watched him — the way his lashes rested against his cheek, the faint curve of a smile even in sleep. One arm was slung loosely around her waist, his grip relaxed, like even in dreams he was afraid she might drift away.

She carefully turned to face him, her hand resting lightly on his chest. His heart beat slow and steady beneath her fingers.

Sheik stirred, and his eyes blinked open. The moment their gazes met, the sleepiness faded, replaced by something quieter. Something warmer.

"Morning," he whispered, voice rough with sleep.

Andrea smiled. "Morning."

He reached up and tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Last night didn't feel real."

"It was," she said. "Every second of it."

They lay there in silence for a few moments more, neither wanting to break the stillness.

"I wish we didn't have to leave this room," Sheik murmured, eyes drifting to the clock.

Andrea frowned. "I know. But you have training, and I have an essay due."

"I know," he sighed, pulling her closer. "Still. Can't a guy want to freeze time?"

She laughed, burying her face into his chest. "If you figure out how, let me know."

After breakfast — shared on the floor with pancakes in takeout boxes — they sat by the window, knees touching, gazing at the street below.

"I've been thinking," Sheik said suddenly.

Andrea looked at him. "About what?"

"About us. About how we've survived distance, stress, injuries, pranks, and Mochi chewing up half my sneakers."

She laughed. "He only chewed one."

Sheik grinned. "Point is… I don't want to keep loving you in halves. I want to plan something real. Long-term."

Her breath caught.

"You're serious?" she asked.

"I've never been more serious," he said. "After this season, I want us to look at places — real places — where we can build a life. Together."

Andrea didn't say anything at first. Just reached for his hand and held it tight.

"Okay," she whispered. "Let's dream it out loud."

And in that little hotel room, with coffee gone cold and sunlight warming their backs, Sheik and Andrea didn't just talk about love.

They started building it.