Kiev felt a warm and gentle figure wrapping around his waist, providing a comforting embrace. The soothing presence beckoned him to return the hug, seeking solace.
"Kiev," a soft voice called his name. The familiar sound made him respond with a hum, his eyes still closed.
"Are you awake?" the voice asked again gently.
Kiev then felt a tender touch on his cheek and instinctively reached up to keep the hand there. As his eyes slowly opened, they were met by Elis's concerned blue-eyed gaze.
"Elis?" he uttered, a little surprised to find her so close.
Though they had been sharing the bed, they were always distant. Yet here she was, lying beside him without her usual nightgown.
"Do you feel better?" Elis asked, the worry evident in her voice.
Kiev gave a slight nod in response. "Why are you undressed? You could catch a cold," he inquired.
"It's warm under the covers. We shared body heat last night, so I'm not cold," she explained. "What about you? Does it still hurt?"
