The soft chirping of birds echoed through the air, breaking the stillness of the early morning. A warm sliver of sunlight began to creep through the curtains, spilling gently over the room. The cool air of dawn kissed your skin as you slowly emerged from your deep slumber, the remnants of sleep still heavy in your mind.

Beside you, Phainon remained unaware of the world around him. His tousled hair framed his face like a messy halo, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. His arms were wrapped around you, his grip firm, almost possessive, like a koala unwilling to let go of its favorite tree.

As you attempted to slip out of his hold, his arms tightened around you instinctively, pulling you back to him with a soft grunt. You shifted slightly to face him, meeting his soft, furrowed brow and the subtle pout on his lips. His eyes fluttered open just enough for his gaze to meet yours, still clouded with sleep.

"Don't leave," he murmured, his voice low and raspy, laden with the weight of dreams still lingering. He pulled you closer, burying his face in the crook of your neck, his breath warm against your skin.