HEART BEAT

CHAPTER SEVEN

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**Chapter 7**

The early morning sun streamed through the blinds of Kira's apartment, casting soft, golden light across the room. Kira stirred under the covers, the warmth of the sun on her face coaxing her from sleep. As she opened her eyes, she felt the comforting weight of Alex's arm draped over her waist, his steady breathing a soothing rhythm beside her.

For a moment, Kira simply lay there, savoring the peace of the morning. She could hear the faint sounds of the city outside-cars passing by, birds chirping-and she was struck by how different everything felt now. In the past, mornings like these were rare, usually spent rushing to get ready for work, but now, with Alex beside her, there was a new sense of contentment, a calm that she had never quite experienced before.

Careful not to wake him, Kira slowly turned to face Alex. He was still asleep, his features relaxed, a slight smile playing on his lips. She took a moment to study him, marveling at how this man, who had been her closest friend for so long, had become so much more. There was a vulnerability to him in sleep, a softness that made her heart swell with affection.

Gently, she brushed a stray lock of hair from his forehead, her fingers lingering on his skin. The simple act sent a warm shiver down her spine, a reminder of the deep connection they shared. It was strange to think that just a few weeks ago, she had been so terrified of losing him, so afraid of what might happen if they crossed the line between friendship and something more.

But now, as she lay beside him, she realized that those fears had been unfounded. Their relationship had deepened in ways she hadn't anticipated, and every day they spent together only reinforced the bond they shared. They had taken a leap of faith, and it had paid off in ways she could have never imagined.

Kira's gaze drifted to the clock on the nightstand, and she realized with a start that it was already past seven. They both had shifts at the hospital today, and while she was reluctant to leave the warmth of the bed, she knew they couldn't stay here forever.

She leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to Alex's cheek, murmuring, "Hey, sleepyhead, it's time to wake up."

Alex stirred, his eyelids fluttering open as he blinked against the morning light. His gaze focused on her, and a slow, sleepy smile spread across his face. "Good morning," he mumbled, his voice thick with sleep.

Kira chuckled softly, her heart fluttering at the sight of him. "Good morning. We need to get up, or we're going to be late."

Alex groaned in protest, his arm tightening around her as he buried his face in the crook of her neck. "Five more minutes," he pleaded, his breath warm against her skin.

Kira laughed, the sound light and carefree. "We don't have five more minutes. We need to get ready."

He sighed dramatically but finally relented, rolling onto his back and stretching lazily. "Alright, alright. You win."

Kira smiled and slipped out of bed, heading toward the bathroom. As she brushed her teeth and splashed cold water on her face, she couldn't help but marvel at how easily they had fallen into this routine-waking up together, teasing each other in the morning light, sharing the simple, everyday moments that made life beautiful.

By the time she returned to the bedroom, Alex had pulled on a pair of sweats and was sitting on the edge of the bed, running a hand through his tousled hair. He looked up as she entered, his eyes warm with affection.

"I could get used to this," he said, his tone light but sincere.

"Me too," Kira admitted, her smile widening as she moved to the closet to grab her clothes for the day. "I've never been much of a morning person, but waking up with you makes it a lot easier."