Transcending To You

Chapter 25: SECOND STEP: RESPECT

The next morning, Bright and Win awoke entwined in each other's embrace. Bright opened his eyes to find Win already awake, gazing at him with a serene smile, not wanting to disturb the moment.

"You're up?" Bright mumbled, his voice thick with sleep.

Win nodded, his smile widening. "How do you feel?" Bright asked, concern evident in his eyes.

"I'm fine," Win replied, his smile unwavering.

Bright knew better. "Does it still hurt?" he pressed gently.

"Just a little, but it's bearable. I'll be fine," Win reassured him. "You don't need to worry."

"Of course, I'll worry," Bright said, pulling Win closer, his embrace tightening protectively.

Win began to trace light patterns on Bright's bare back, his touch soothing. "I had the best night of my life, and I'm glad I had it with you. I hope this makes it better for you," he said, cuddling into Bright.

"We should get you checked by a doctor, just in case. And we need to get our vaccinations too," Bright reminded him.

Win smiled softly. "I don't think there are any ruptures, and yes, we'll get our vaccines. I'm really fine," he insisted.

Bright nodded, though he remained unconvinced. "Shall we get up and decorate the tree?" he suggested.

Win nodded again, though Bright could see through his brave facade. As Win attempted to rise, a wince of pain flickered across his face.

"Here, let me help you," Bright offered, extending a hand.

Win waved it off with a smile and stood on his own, determined. Bright admired his resilience. "Give me my clothes," Win requested, pointing to the garments draped over the bedpost. Bright quickly fetched them.

Win dressed and headed towards the bathroom, with Bright following closely behind. "Are you sure you're okay?" Bright asked as he entered the bathroom.

Win, toothbrush in hand, nodded. Bright, still undressed, came up behind him and hugged him, pressing a gentle kiss to his neck. "Don't lie to me," he murmured, nuzzling closer.

Win smiled. "Are you planning to stay undressed?" he teased.

"Do I need to?" Bright chuckled.

"Only if you want to show your tiny miny cute little guy to the house workers," Win said, laughing.

"What? You have house workers?" Bright asked, quickly grabbing a towel.

"Yeah, they might be here. Our breakfast might be ready," Win explained.

"Oh, this is nice," Bright said, smiling.

"Grab a toothbrush from the cupboard," Win gestured towards the corner.

Bright nodded, a smile playing on his lips as he reached for the toothbrush, feeling the warmth of their shared morning fill the room.

Once Bright and Win completed their morning routine, they stepped out of the bedroom into a pristine living room. The tree, adorned with a few initial decorations, stood proudly by the window, and breakfast was neatly laid out on the table.

Bright looked at Win, his eyes twinkling. "Now I know why you don't want to come back to me," he said with a chuckle.

Win laughed. "I would always love to be with you," he replied, greeting the three house workers with a cheerful "Good morning."

"Hello Mrs. Smith, this is Bright," Win introduced. "He'll be staying with me for a while, so please cook lunch for him as well. You all can take today and tomorrow off."