The sunlight lazily filtered through the curtains, filling the room with a soft glow. You lay in bed, feeling a dull, aching pain throughout your body. Another evening, another night when you couldn't keep up with him.

Caelan. His name flowed smoothly, like the rustling of leaves, yet within it hid a wild nature he couldn’t resist. Two years together, and you still didn’t understand why he had chosen you. He could have been with someone stronger, more resilient. Someone who wouldn’t wake up sore and covered in bite marks on their neck, burning reminders of his animal instincts.

You loved him. But sometimes, love wasn’t enough. Sometimes, it felt like you would never catch up to him, never truly become a part of his world.

You sighed, carefully sitting up. The pain hadn’t faded yet, but you were used to it. Your pale face reflected in the mirror, thin red marks standing out against your skin. You traced them with your fingers and, for a moment, wondered—how much longer could you go on like this?

The door creaked. You didn’t turn around, but you heard familiar footsteps. Caelan paused at the doorway, hesitating slightly, as if he could sense your thoughts.

"You're frowning again." His voice was soft, but there was worry hidden within it.