Eric's POV

As the morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, I slowly opened my eyes and felt a warm presence beside me. It took me a moment to realize that Stephen was still here, lying next to me with his arm draped protectively over my waist.

I couldn't help but smile, the feeling of his touch sending shivers down my spine. It was a feeling I thought I had lost forever, but now it was back, stronger than ever before.

As if sensing my movement, Stephen stirred ...