35

Gael

I open my eyes and for the first time I don't see the small rays of sunlight that usually invade the gaps in my bedroom shutters. I sigh softly, enjoying Evy's delicate sleeping face next to me. Her black hair is scattered beautifully across my pillow and there are a few strands on her face too, but they don't stop me from observing her elongated black eyelashes, her tapered nose and her plump pink mouth ajar. She makes a funny gesture with her mouth that makes me smile and I catch myself sighing again. My gaze moves down a little further, to her lap where her bare breasts slowly rise and fall in rhythm with her slow, silent breathing.

Yes, for the first time she's fallen asleep in my arms and I don't know how I feel about it.

I want to touch her, feel her and kiss her. God, to wake her up with morning kisses and caresses. To wrap my arms around her and feel her warmth, and my body automatically wakes up with anxiety.

Don't do that, Gael.

It's not real.

It never will be.

I