August Skye

Part 7

As the first light of dawn began to illuminate the world, the sun's rays filtered through the gossamer-thin curtains of August's spacious bedroom. August herself was still asleep, her raven-black hair cascading in gentle waves down the length of her back. I was comfortably positioned amidst a pile of plush pillows next to her, deep in the world of social media on my phone, and savouring the rich, spicy flavours of my favourite latte. Jackie had somehow managed to perfect the recipe even better than the baristas at Starbucks which made my mornings something to look forward to even more.

The state of August's bed told a story of its own.

The sheets were a tangle of cotton and silk around her sleeping frame and as she shifted, her dark hair began to slowly fan out around her in a wild, chaotic halo. One arm was suddenly flung haphazardly across my side of the bed- well.... technically, no side truly belonged to me since I was the one who had opted for separate bedrooms. Still, coming here in the early mornings to watch her sleep had become my morning mantra and so, I now claim this side of the bed.

Therefore, one arm was flung across my side of the bed and a tender smile played on my lips at the sight. I set my phone aside, reaching out to stroke her cheek gently. Her response was a small, contented sigh that made my smile widen even more. Leaning in, I whispered softly against her ear. She was about to curse me out, especially since it wasn't even eight yet but, I've made up my mind to knock on death's doors.

"Wake up, sleeping beauty," I whispered. She stirred, a low groan escaping her throat as she slowly opened her eyes. But upon seeing me, her face lit up in a radiant smile. "We've got a big day today."

"Good morning, beautiful."

"Good morning, Mrs Skye-Luis."

"What time is it?"

"Mhm hmm." I shook my head softly. "Nope, because you are going to kill me if I tell you."

She sat up, the sheets falling away to reveal her adorable heart-patterned pyjamas. "Willow!" She whined.

"Blame Kate. She makes your schedules."

She huffed, then, she leaned in and planted a tender kiss on my lips. My face lit up as if the sun was shining directly on me. This has become my favourite part of our morning routine. "Morning kisses for wifey!" I blushed. "Still can't get bored with hearing that, can you?"

"Not in a million years," I responded truthfully. "I still can't believe it either."

We spend nearly half an hour more in bed. August just couldn't get herself up until it hit eight. At that time, we just lay beneath the covers talking about our marriage. It was so strange to say even now. We found ourselves talking about religion, whether we followed any particular faith and what political standings we held.

We ended the conversation with a discussion about charitable work, something that we both did. But, as it turned out, August is very involved in giving back to the community. Every December, she would do a Christmas concert in collaboration with a number of other artists and donate the money they raise to a charitable cause. This year, they were donating to a children's hospital, specifically, the oncology department and that made me feel some type of way. Especially since cancer had wreaked havoc in my life.

It was nearly eight thirty when we climbed out of bed, ready to start our day. August's walk-in closet was a sight to behold, a paradise for any fashion enthusiast. Despite countless visits, I found myself continually amazed by the extensive collection of designer clothes and shoes neatly arranged in rows.

"A, do you ever wear the same thing twice?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.

"Rarely," she replied honestly. "But feel free to borrow anything that fits you."