The sun had barely started to rise, casting a soft glow through the curtains of Rafe’s bedroom. You stirred slightly, warm and comfortable, only to realize you weren’t alone in your waking moments.

Rafe was already awake, lying on his side, his head propped up on his hand as he looked at you. Really looked at you.

You blinked sleepily. “What?”

He smiled, that rare, genuine kind. “Nothin’.”

You narrowed your eyes. “You’re staring.”

“Yeah,” he admitted, reaching out to brush his fingers over your cheek. “Can’t help it.”

Your heart fluttered. He was never like this with anyone else—only with you. You were the one who got to see him like this, all soft and warm and completely unguarded.

You rolled onto your side to face him properly, your fingers lightly tracing the freckles on his arm. “You’re in a weird mood.”

His lips twitched. “Maybe.” He exhaled, fingers trailing down your jaw before he cupped it gently. “I just… I really love you.”

It wasn’t the first time he’d said it, but the way he said it now, like it was the most certain thing in his entire world, made your breath catch.

You smiled, pressing a soft kiss to his palm. “I really love you too.”

He pulled you closer, tucking you into his chest like he never wanted to let go. And honestly? You never wanted him to.