Chapter 84: Coffee and Confrontations

I woke up tangled in Tyler's arms as the morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow around the room. For a moment, I lay there, savoring the feeling of belonging that washed over me. Tyler looked so peaceful in sleep. His face was relaxed, showing no sign of the usual burdens he carried in waking life. I felt a surge of protectiveness toward him, wishing I could somehow take away all the troubles and stresses in his life.

Nuzzling closer, I breathed in his scent. Rain... He smelled like rain.

He stirred slightly, his voice a sleepy whisper. "You awake?"

I shook my head against his chest and mumbled, "No, I'm still sleeping."

His arms tightened around me, his fingers gently stroking my long purple hair as he chuckled softly. "Well, we should probably start thinking about getting up. What do you feel like for breakfast?"

I considered my options for a moment, the thought of food making me realize just how hungry I was. "Hmmm..." I contemplated, "Maybe waffles..