Chapter 340: Simple Solutions to Complicated Problems (Katelyn's POV)

(Katelyn's POV)

Gray morning light began to creep its way up the dark sky and I found myself tiptoeing my way to Ryder’s room, the air still cool and quiet in the house.

He was still asleep, curled up under the blankets, his face softened by dreams. For a moment, I just watched him, the rise and fall of his chest, the slight furrow of his brow even in sleep. I climbed onto the bed beside him, lying on my side and snuggling close, just savoring the quiet stillness around us.

Gently, I reached up and brushed a lock of hair away from his eyes, feeling the familiar ache in my heart as I studied him. Even in sleep, he seemed troubled, as if the weight of everything was impossible for him to fully shake, even in his dreams.

My fingers traced gently across his cheek and his eyes fluttered open.

“Hey,” he murmured, his voice thick with sleep. “What’re you doing here so early?”

I gave him a small smile. “I could ask you the same thing. I thought you were going to come back to my room last nigh