Ronan’s POV

Elias fell asleep on my shoulder.

It happened slowly. First his head dropped a little, then he tried to lift it again, but he was too tired. After a few minutes, he leaned fully against me. He did not even notice when I shifted my arm so he would not slide down.

His breathing evened out, soft and slow. His hand rested near mine on the floor. His fingers twitched once, like he was dreaming.

I looked at his face.

He looked peaceful. Not tense like he usually was. Not guarded. ...