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Not Alone

Author: Aichatou
last update Last Updated: 2025-03-04 13:44:28

Aria’s POV

The first thing I became aware of was warmth.

The sheets were soft, the air cool against my skin, but it was the lingering heat on the pillow beside me that made my heart clench. My fingers brushed over the space where Gabriel had been, but it was empty now, and cold.

How long had I been asleep? The last thing I remembered was his arms around me, his body against mine, the deep rumble of his voice before I drifted off.

Now, he was gone.

Something in my chest tightened.

But then my eyes caught on a folded piece of paper sitting on the pillow where his head had been.

I pushed myself up, sore in a way that made my face heat, and reached for it.

Aria,

Didn’t want to wake you. You needed the rest.

I had to step out for a while, but I’ll be back.

Text or call me when you’re up.

If you need anything, there are guards outside. But you’re safe here.

Sleep a little longer. Eat something.

And if you miss me… just know I miss you more.

—G

I stared at the
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