𝐖𝐄 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐅𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐘, 𝖺 𝗀𝗅𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝖺𝗅𝖻𝗎𝗆

soft eyes

Sunlight spilled gently through the cracked wooden slats of the Iron Lion's small armory window, casting warm stripes over the rumpled blanket that tangled Bea and Nico together on the bench.

Bea stirred first, blinking against the soft light. For a moment, she wasn't sure where she was until she felt the steady rise and fall of Nico's chest against her back, his arm draped protectively over her waist.

A shy smile tugged at her lips. Quietly, so as not to wake him, she shifted to peek over her shoulder.

Nico's dark hair was tousled, his usual sharp gaze softened in sleep. The faintest crease of a smile hovered at his mouth, like he was dreaming of something good.

Bea's amber eyes shone with warmth. She carefully slipped out from under his arm, trying not to disturb the peaceful moment.

But then a soft groan and a low voice murmured, "Bea?"

She froze.

Nico's eyes fluttered open, meeting hers with sleepy surprise.

"Morning," he said, voice still thick with sleep.

"Morning," Bea replied, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, cheeks flushing slightly.

For a heartbeat, they just looked at each other, the weight of last night hanging quietly in the air.

Nico cracked a small smile. "You're warm," he teased lightly, but his eyes held something more, something tender and real.

Bea smirked, nudging him playfully. "You're the one who fell asleep hugging me."

He laughed softly, running a hand through his messy hair. "Can't help it. You're kind of my favorite blanket."

They both chuckled, the awkwardness easing.

From the doorway, a voice called out, loud and teasing. "So, when's the wedding?"

Bea and Nico jumped apart as Vicky leaned against the frame, arms crossed with a sly grin.

"Vicky!" Bea hissed, cheeks flaming.

Nico rolled his eyes with a grin. "Some things never change."

Bea glanced at Nico, heart fluttering in a new way.

Whatever the future held, for now, they had this moment - quiet, imperfect, and real.