A Cruel Summer

Chapter 32

Karlie wakes first, the late morning sun leaking through the half-closed curtains, illuminating the bedroom in a warm glow. As her eyes adjust, she turns her attention to the clock on the nightstand. 10:30 am. It's been longer than she can remember since she's been able to sleep in this late, her internal clock overrun by early morning diaper changes, feedings, and snuck-in workouts. She relishes in the opportunity for a few extra hours of rest, especially after the whirlwind of the last few days – her trip to London with Taylor, the early morning crisis management with Tree from Josh's exposé, last evening's night out with Taylor. She was utterly exhausted, and the extra hours of sleep were sure to do her wonders.

Stretching lazily, Karlie rolls onto her side, taking in the sight of Taylor still peacefully sleeping beside her. A soft smile graces her lips as she watches the gentle rise and fall of Taylor's chest with each breath. She reaches out to brush a stray strand of hair away from Taylor's face, marveling at the peacefulness that envelopes the room.

With a contented sigh, Karlie leans in to press a tender kiss against Taylor's forehead, eliciting a faint murmur from the sleeping woman. She stirs slightly, a small smile tugging at her lips as she nuzzles closer to Karlie's warmth.

"Morning, pretty girl," Karlie says softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Mmm," Taylor hums in response, her eyes still closed as she snuggles closer to Karlie. "Mornin'," she mumbles against the crook of Karlie's neck.

Karlie smiles at Taylor's sleepy demeanor, the warmth of her breath against her skin sending shivers down her spine. She wraps her arms around her, pulling her closer in a gentle embrace. For a moment, they lay in silence, simply reveling in each other's presence, and the outside world fades away as they bask in the contentment of the morning.

Eventually, Taylor stirs, blinking sleepily as she opens her eyes to meet Karlie's gaze. A soft smile lights up her face as she reaches up to caress Karlie's cheek.

"I love waking up to you," Taylor murmurs, her voice filled with warmth and affection.

Karlie's heart swells at Taylor's words. She leans in to capture Taylor's lips in a soft, lingering kiss, savoring the sweetness of the moment.

"I love waking up to you, too," Karlie whispers against Taylor's lips, her voice filled with sincerity.

"What time is it?" Taylor asks as they separate, groggily rubbing her eyes.

"A little after 10:30. We slept in," Karlie responds with a soft chuckle.

"Slept in?" Taylor repeats, her eyes squinting at Karlie. "It's, like, the crack of dawn, Karlie."

Karlie laughs in response, "Right, I forgot you're nocturnal."

Taylor pouts playfully, poking Karlie in the side. "Hey, some of us are just more productive at night," she protests, eliciting another round of laughter from Karlie.

"Fair enough," Karlie concedes, pressing a quick kiss to Taylor's nose. "But I am glad we got to sleep in together."

"Mm, me too," Taylor murmurs, snuggling back into Karlie. "Can we stay like this forever?"

"I wish we could," she whispers, pressing a tender kiss to Taylor's forehead. "But unfortunately, life doesn't work that way. We've got things to do, places to be."

Taylor lets out a dramatic sigh, rolling onto her back and staring up at the ceiling. "Responsibilities ruin everything," she grumbles, though there's a hint of amusement in her voice.

Karlie chuckles softly, running her fingers through Taylor's hair. "Such a drama queen."

Taylor grins mischievously. "But you love me anyway."