Chains of Dawnmere

The morning sun spilled gently into the room, casting golden light over soft fabrics and tangled blankets. The silence was comforting, warm, broken only by the low hum of distant wind brushing against the curtains. In the quiet stillness of this brief peace, Caelen lay half-awake, his silver hair tousled across the pillow, his bare chest rising and falling with a slow breath. Reina was beside him, curled against his side, the warmth between them lingering even as morning crept in.

The door creaked open softly.

Veralia stepped inside, her long cloak flowing behind her like a shadow, and her eyes landed on the bed. Her voice came out light, composed, but her face instantly turned red.

"Good morning."

Caelen opened his eyes slowly, blinking at the light. Reina stirred, stretched lazily, and stood—completely unclothed. With effortless grace, she leaned over and kissed Caelen's lips.