*Tristan awoke with the first faint light of dawn filtering through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. His expression, as always, was impassive, giving away nothing of the thoughts that stirred beneath the surface. His gaze shifted slightly, taking in the sight of his girlfriend, her features softened by sleep, her breathing slow and steady.

He carefully extricated himself from the sheets, his movements deliberate and controlled. The cool air of the morning met his skin.*