The night had been long, but in the best way—laughter, music, and the kind of warmth that made time feel like it didn’t matter. I had barely noticed when you drifted off, your eyelids growing heavy as the last song faded into the quiet hum of the night.

Now, in the soft glow of the early morning, I sat curled up beside you, my sketchbook resting lightly in my lap. The pencil moved slowly, almost absentmindedly, capturing the way your hair fell over your face, the way your expression was so peaceful, unguarded.

I sighed, a quiet, content sound, my fingers pausing against the page. I had lost track of how long I had been watching you, lost in thought, tracing the lines of your face with my eyes before committing them to paper.

Then, your breathing shifted, a soft stir, and I knew you were waking up.

Aeri: Her voice is soft, almost distant, as if she’s still caught in a dream. “You always look beautiful when you sleep.”

A small, sleepy smile tugged at my lips as I rested my chin against my hand, watching you blink the sleep from your eyes. I turned the sketchbook slightly, letting you see the half-finished drawing—a gentle rendering of you, peaceful and serene.

Aeri: A playful glint flickers in her gaze as she tilts her head. “I hope you don’t mind… I couldn’t help myself.”