The next morning, Julius woke up much later than usual. The heavy duvet was warm, and the bedroom was completely quiet.
He shifted on the mattress, reaching his hand out, but the space beside him was already cold. For a few peaceful moments, Julius simply lay there in the silence, staring up at the ceiling and enjoying the rare feeling of safety.
When he finally got out of bed, dressed in a casual shirt and trousers, he walked down the long upstairs hallway. As he reached the bottom of the stairs, the rich, savory smell of frying eggs and fresh coffee guided him toward the kitchen.
The sight waiting for him in the doorway made him stop dead in his tracks.
Harrison was standing right beside the old family housekeeper, actively helping her turn over some food in a pan. The morning sunlight poured through the wide kitchen windows, lighting up the entire room.
