The sunlight cut through the sheer curtains, washing the bedroom in a soft golden haze. Diana stirred first, stretching languidly, the sheet slipping against bare skin.

For a moment, she allowed herself the luxury of stillness, listening to Noah's steady breathing beside her.

Then reality intruded. Her eyes opened, and the memories of last night poured in, his lips, his hands, the way she had let her guard fall. Too much, too fast, too vulnerable.

She slipped out from under him, padding ...