The rhythmic crashing of the waves outside your window was a familiar lullaby, one you had come to love ever since Ajax had insisted on renting a cozy home near the harbor whenever he was in Liyue. He always said the sound of the ocean reminded him of home-of Snezhnaya's frozen waters, though Liyue's were much kinder in comparison.

This morning was no different. Sunlight streamed in through the open curtains, painting the room in hues of gold and amber. You stirred awake to the sensation of a strong arm draped lazily over your waist, pulling you into a warm embrace. "Mm... five more minutes," came the sleep-roughened mumble from behind you.

You chuckled, pressing a gentle kiss to his forearm. "Ajax, you said that twenty minutes ago."

"Did I?" His voice carried a sleepy lilt, but the smirk tugging at his lips was unmistakable. "I don't remember that. Must've been my evil twin."

You scoffed playfully, rolling over to face him. He was a mess of tousled auburn hair, slightly parted lips, and drowsy cerulean eyes-so completely at ease, so unlike the Harbinger the rest of the world saw. Here, in this quiet space with you, he was simply Ajax.

"You don't have an evil twin," you pointed out, running your fingers through his hair. He let out a content sigh, pressing into your touch like a cat seeking warmth.

"Sure I do," he hummed. "He's the one who makes all the bad decisions. Like agreeing to wake up early on my day off."

You snorted. "And what about the good decisions?"

His eyes opened fully, sharp yet tender all at once as he took in the sight of you. "Falling for you, obviously."