Morning came softly, a pale light seeping through the curtains, brushing against my face like a reluctant whisper. I stirred, half-asleep, my body still heavy with the warmth of Roman’s arms wrapped loosely around me. His breathing was deep and even, his chin resting just above my hair.

For a fleeting second, I let myself stay there. Just one more moment. One more heartbeat before reality caught up.

Then I opened my eyes fully and saw the clock. 7:24 a.m.

“Oh, crap,” I muttered, sitting ...