Marlos

My Love

Sunlight streamed through the gauzy curtains of Mal's dorm room, casting a soft glow over the sleeping figures nestled in her bed. Mal, her purple hair a vibrant splash of color against the white pillows, lay curled on her side, facing away from the room's occupant. Behind her, Carlos, his arm gently draped over her waist, slept soundly, his face relaxed and peaceful.

A soft sigh escaped Mal's lips as she stirred, her eyes fluttering open. She stretched languidly, a smile curving her lips as she felt the warmth of Carlos's body pressed against hers. Turning her head, she gazed at him, her heart swelling with a familiar warmth. He looked so peaceful in sleep, his usual anxieties and worries momentarily forgotten.

Gently, she reached out and brushed a stray strand of hair from his forehead. Carlos stirred at her touch, his eyes slowly opening to meet hers. A sleepy smile spread across his face as he pulled her closer, nuzzling his face into her neck.

"Morning," he mumbled, his voice husky with sleep.

"Morning," Mal replied, her voice soft and tender.

They lay there for a moment, content in the comfortable silence, the only sound the gentle rhythm of their breathing. Then, as if on cue, they both leaned in, their lips meeting in a soft, tender kiss. It was a familiar ritual, a way to start their day, a reminder of the love and connection they shared.

As they pulled away, Mal giggled softly. "What are you thinking about?" she asked, tracing a finger along his jawline.

Carlos nuzzled closer, a contented sigh escaping his lips. "Just how lucky I am to be here with you," he murmured, his voice filled with sincerity.

Mal's smile widened, her heart overflowing with warmth. "Me too," she whispered, leaning in for another kiss.

They snuggled closer, relishing the warmth and comfort of each other's embrace. The morning light filtered through the curtains, painting the room in a soft, golden hue. For a while, they simply enjoyed the quiet intimacy, the feeling of being completely present in the moment.

Carlos, his hand gently stroking Mal's hair, whispered, "Five more minutes?"

Mal, her eyes sparkling with affection, nodded. "Five more minutes."

Five minutes later, the playful mood shifted, replaced by a sense of urgency. Carlos, remembering the day's tasks, gently disentangled himself from Mal's embrace.

"Alright," he said, his voice filled with a hint of regret. "Time to get up."

Mal stretched, a playful yawn escaping her lips. "Do we have to?" she whined, her voice tinged with mock disappointment.

Carlos chuckled, pulling her closer for one last kiss. "We do," he said, his voice firm but gentle. "But we can get ready together."

With a shared smile, they both rose from the bed, their movements synchronized as they began to dress. Mal slipped into a pair of black leggings and a flowy, knee-length skirt with a purple ombre design that faded to pink at the hem. She paired it with a cute graphic tee featuring a cartoon dragon and some cute purple Jordans. Carlos, opting for a simple black shirt and jeans, moved with a quiet efficiency.

----

The day unfolded like a fairytale for Mal, with Carlos treating her like the queen she truly was. After getting ready, they headed to the school cafeteria for breakfast. Instead of letting Mal carry her own tray, Carlos insisted on carrying both of theirs, his muscles flexing slightly under the weight.

Finding a cozy spot in a sun-drenched corner, Carlos pulled out Mal's chair for her, a gesture she accepted with a playful curtsy. As they ate, Carlos kept a watchful eye on Mal's plate, spearing a piece of fluffy pancake with his fork and offering it to her with a teasing smile.