The morning light seeped softly through the curtains, painting the room in pale gold. You stirred under the weight of the blankets, groaning softly, hair tangled around your face. Every movement felt heavy, and your eyes fluttered open reluctantly.

Beside you, a presence shifted. A hand brushed back the strands of hair that clung to your cheek, gentle and deliberate. The warmth of it made you relax, though you didn’t speak.

A smile, quiet but teasing, hovered just above you. Then lips pressed to yours—a slow, lingering kiss that carried a softness that words could never fully capture. The world outside the room faded, leaving only the sensation of warmth, comfort, and affection.

Alhaitham’s voice broke the silence, low and amused: “Birthday girl… finally awake.”