Morning came soft and golden, filtering through the tent's fabric like honey through silk. Alex woke slowly, awareness returning in gentle waves. The warmth on his right was Artemia, her blue hair spilling across his arm like a river of silk, her face peaceful in sleep. On his left, Saeko's dark hair mingled with the blue, her breathing slow and steady, her hand resting on his chest.
He lay still, savoring the moment. Two women, two hearts, both his. The weight of their trust, their love, settled over him like a blessing. He did not move. He simply watched them sleep, memorizing the curve of their lips, the flutter of their lashes.
Artemia stirred first. Her eyes fluttered open, meeting his gaze. A slow smile spread across her face.
"Good morning," she murmured.
"Good morning."
She leaned up and kissed him—soft, warm, lingering. When she pulled back, Saeko was waking. Her dark eyes found his, and she smiled.
"Good morning," she said.
