EUPHORIA

A new dawn(part 5)

The first light of dawn crept through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room. Damian stirred awake, feeling the warmth of Raven's body pressed against him. He glanced down to see her still nestled against his side, her dark hair splayed across the pillow like a halo. A content smile tugged at his lips as he watched her sleep peacefully.

He took a moment to appreciate the quiet. The chaos of the past few days felt like a distant memory, and the serene atmosphere wrapped around them like a comforting blanket. He couldn't help but marvel at how lucky he felt to have her safe beside him, their connection deepening with each passing moment.

Carefully, so as not to wake her, he slid out of bed and padded softly to the kitchen. He wanted to prepare something for both of them-something simple but heartfelt. As he prepared a light breakfast, he thought about how far they had come together, how much they had been through, and how he'd do anything to protect her.

The sound of sizzling filled the air, and as he worked, he caught the smell of freshly cooked eggs wafting through the kitchen. He was just about to pour a glass of orange juice when he heard a soft rustling from the bedroom.

"Damian?" Raven's voice was still heavy with sleep, laced with warmth that sent a flutter through his heart.

He turned, a smile breaking across his face. "I'm here. Just making some breakfast. Want some?"

"Definitely," she replied, her voice brightening as she emerged from the bedroom, wrapping herself in one of his hoodies, its sleeves hanging long over her fingers. She looked effortlessly beautiful, her cheeks still rosy from sleep.

As she stepped into the kitchen, he finished plating the food and handed her a glass of orange juice. Their fingers brushed against each other, igniting warmth within him. "Morning," he said, leaning against the counter, unable to take his eyes off her.

"Morning," she replied, taking a sip from her glass. Her eyes lit up as she savored the taste. "This is perfect."

"I'm glad you like it," he said, a hint of pride in his voice. "I thought you might prefer something light."

After a moment, Raven turned to him, her gaze serious but soft. "Thank you for being there for me, for everything you did. I know it wasn't easy."

Damian felt a rush of warmth at her words. "I would do it all over again if it meant keeping you safe," he replied, his voice sincere. "You're everything to me, Raven."

Her expression softened, and she stepped closer, placing her hand on his arm. "And you mean everything to me, Damian." She reached out, her hand finding his, their fingers interlocking.

He leaned down slightly, their faces inches apart. "I didn't want to lose you," he confessed, his voice low. "I was terrified."

Raven's thumb brushed against his knuckles, grounding him. "But you didn't lose me. I'm right here."

At that moment, the world outside faded away, leaving only the two of them in their own little bubble. Without thinking, Damian leaned in, capturing her lips with his. The kiss was soft at first, a gentle exploration that deepened as they melted into each other.

When they finally pulled away, both breathless, a shy smile danced on Raven's lips. "Wow," she breathed, her cheeks flushed.

"Yeah," he echoed, his heart racing. "Wow."

Raven's eyes sparkled with mischief. "So, what's the plan for today? Are we just going to stay here and be all romantic?"

Damian chuckled softly, "I'm open to that, but I think we should check in with Dick first. He's probably worried sick."