Banquet preparation

As the first light of dawn filtered through the curtains, I stirred awake, the warmth of the morning sun gently nudging me from my dreams. I could feel the steady rise and fall of Aurelia's chest against my back, her arm draped protectively over me.

For a moment, I simply lay there, savouring the quiet intimacy of the moment. There was something so peaceful about waking up beside her, our bodies still entangled in the comfort of sleep.

I shifted slightly, turning in her embrace so that I could face her. Her features were soft in the early light, her lips slightly parted as she slept. I couldn't help but smile, a wave of affection washing over me as I watched her. I gently brushed a stray strand of hair away from her face, my fingers lingering on her cheek.

Aurelia's eyelids fluttered open at the touch, her gaze meeting mine with a sleepy smile. "Good morning," she murmured, her voice husky with sleep.