Marlos

Friends

The gentle patter of rain against the windowpane woke Mal. She stretched languidly, a small smile gracing her lips as she snuggled closer to the warmth beside her. Outside, Auradon was shrouded in a soft, dark light, the rain coming down steadily in a soothing rhythm. It was a stark contrast to the vibrant sunshine of the previous day, but Mal found it strangely comforting. A perfect day for staying inside, curled up with the one she loved.

She glanced around the room, a warm feeling spreading through her as she took in the remnants of their Valentine's Day celebration. The bed was still covered in a jumble of gifts – plush toys, boxes of chocolates, and the thoughtful presents Carlos had given her. The scent of the Dragon's Breath Delights still lingered faintly in the air, a reminder of the delicious treats she had made for him. It had been a perfect day, filled with love, laughter, and quiet moments of intimacy.

Carlos stirred beside her, his eyes fluttering open. "Morning," he mumbled, his voice still thick with sleep.

"Morning handsome," Mal replied, her voice soft. She leaned in and kissed him gently.

Carlos grinned, pulling her closer. nuzzling his face into her hair. "Rainy days are perfect for sleeping in."

Mal chuckled. "They are," she agreed. "But I'm also kind of hungry."

Carlos stretched and yawned. "Me too," he said. "What do you say we have a lazy morning? Maybe watch another movie, or just… cuddle?"

Mal smiled, her heart overflowing with love. "Sounds perfect," she murmured.

A few minutes later, Mal was surprised by the sound of Carlos quietly slipping out of bed. "Where are you going?" she murmured, her eyes still half-closed.

"Just a little trip to the kitchen," Carlos replied, his voice soft. "I'll be right back."

Mal smiled, guessing his intentions. She snuggled back under the covers, listening to the soft sounds of Carlos moving around in the other room. A few minutes later, he returned, carrying a tray laden with breakfast goodies. There were pancakes drizzled with syrup, a plate of crispy bacon, a bowl of fresh fruit, and a steaming mug of her favorite tea.

"Surprise!" Carlos announced, beaming. "Breakfast in bed for my beautiful girlfriend."

Mal's eyes widened in delight. "Oh, Carlos," she breathed, her voice filled with warmth. "You didn't have to…"

"I wanted to," Carlos said, setting the tray down on the bed. "You deserve to be pampered."

Mal sat up, her heart overflowing with love. "This is amazing," she said, admiring the delicious spread. "Thank you."

They ate breakfast together, chatting and laughing, the rain outside a gentle backdrop to their cozy morning. It was the perfect start to a perfect day, made even more special by Carlos's thoughtful gesture. Just as they were finishing the last bite of pancakes, the door to their dorm room swung open, revealing Evie and Jay, both looking slightly damp from the rain.

"Good morning, lovebirds!" Evie exclaimed, her voice bright. "We brought reinforcements!" She held up a bag laden with snacks and a stack of movies. "Rainy day movie marathon, anyone?"

Jay grinned, holding up a thermos. "And I brought the perfect rainy day beverage," he announced. "Hot chocolate!"

❌MARLOS---❌-MARLOS--❌--MARLOS-❌---MARLOS--❌--MARLOS--❌

Meanwhile, in a dimly lit dorm room across campus, a very different scene was unfolding. Kayla, Celia's younger sister, sat hunched over a table, a sinister glint in her eyes. Her walls were plastered with pictures of Mal, Evie, Jay, and Carlos, but these were no ordinary fan photos.