[In the Shadows of Love] ~ Pedri.Gonzalez

Chapter 17

As morning came, Pedri woke up on the couch with Emily cuddled up next to him. He smiled, feeling the warmth of her body against his. Careful not to disturb her, he began gently playing with her hair, twirling a strand around his finger and brushing it softly from her face.

Emily stirred, slowly waking up to the soft touch. She opened her eyes to find Pedri gazing at her with a tender smile.

"Good morning," she whispered, her voice still heavy with sleep.

"Good morning," Pedri replied softly, continuing to play with her hair. "I could get used to waking up like this."

Emily smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her. "Me too," she said, leaning in to give him a soft kiss.

Pedri held her close, savoring the moment. "How did you sleep?" he asked, his fingers still gently running through her hair.

"Better than ever," Emily replied, snuggling closer to him. "I never want this to end."

Pedri kissed her forehead. "Neither do I, Emily.

As they lay there, they suddenly heard the sound of the main door opening. The old lady from next door walked in, carrying a platter of breakfast food. She entered the living room and, seeing them cuddled on the couch, said, "Oh my, I'm sorry, kids! I was just going to put breakfast here and go."

Pedri sat up, smiling warmly. "Good morning! Thank you so much for the breakfast."

Emily also sat up, rubbing her eyes and smiling at the old lady. "Yes, thank you! This is so kind of you."

The old lady smiled back, placing the platter on the table. "It's nothing, dear. Just a little something to start your day. I'll leave you two to enjoy it."

As the old lady left the room, Emily blushed and quickly got off Pedri, smoothing down her clothes. "Thank you again," she called out, feeling a bit embarrassed.

Pedri chuckled at her reaction, sitting up and reaching for the platter. "Don't be shy, Emily. It's just us now."

Emily smiled shyly, her cheeks still pink. "I know, it's just... I didn't expect anyone to see us like that."