Nina went completely still.
For a moment, she couldn't breathe. She lay frozen beneath the blanket, staring into the darkness, unable to believe what was happening.
Behind her, Rodrigo exhaled slowly. Then she felt him draw another breath, as though he was breathing her in.
Her fingers curled against the sheets.
The warmth of him lingered at her back. Gradually, his breathing steadied, matching the quiet rhythm of the room.
Had he fallen asleep?
The thought had barely formed when he moved.
In one smooth motion, he turned her onto her back.
Nina's eyes flew open.
His face hovered above hers.
Moonlight spilled through the window, catching the sharp lines of his features. His grey eyes held hers, bright and intense, as if he were seeing her for the first time.
Neither of them spoke.
His hand rose slowly. The backs of his fingers brushed her cheek, tucking away the strands of hair that had fallen across her face.
Then he closed his eyes.
A strained breath left him.
