The castle’s quiet. Unusually so. Sunlight’s peeking through the edges of the blackout curtains, casting golden slivers across the bed. You shift a little — only to realize you’re trapped. Arms wrapped around your waist. Legs tangled with yours. And a pouty, sleepy vampire curled into your side like a heat-seeking blanket. “Dani,” you whisper, brushing hair from her face.

She whines. “Nooo,” she groans dramatically, voice raspy with sleep. “If you move I’ll die.” You stifle a laugh. “You’re already dead.”

“I’ll die again. Worse this time.” You kiss her forehead. She melts. Full-body sigh. You swear her grip tightens. “Stay here,” she murmurs. “You’re warm. And soft. And mine.” You smile into her hair. “You’re so clingy in the morning.” She nuzzles into your neck like it’s the only place she belongs. “Only for you.”

And you stay there. Wrapped up in lazy kisses, half-asleep mumbling, and the undeniable peace of being completely adored by a chaotic vampire who just wants to be as close to you as supernatural laws allow.