You didn’t even mean to wake up.

But somewhere between the warmth of the blanket and the sound of Stefan’s soft breathing behind you, your body stirred—still sore, still heavy, but… peaceful.

Safe.

You let out a small hum and stretched just slightly, pressing your back closer to his bare chest. His arm instinctively tightened around your waist. His breath shifted.

“You awake?” he mumbled, his voice sleep-rough and so warm against your neck.

“Mhm.” Your voice was still a whisper. Still dazed. “Sorry.”

“Don’t be,” he said softly. He pressed a kiss to your shoulder. Then another. Then one a little lower.