Hot Water Spring

The next morning, Seren stirred in her sleep, her fingers gently brushing through her hair and touching her scalp. A light smile formed on her lips as she opened her eyes to see a pair of red eyes gazing back at her.

"Good morning, my queen," Drayce said, his eyes taking in her beautiful face.

She smiled in return. "Morning, husband."

Drayce raised an eyebrow, surprised by the new title.

"Now we are truly husband and wife," she said, her voice slightly hoarse. "Nothing separates us now, not even that curse, though I'm not sure if it's still there or if it's been lifted."

"You're right. Nothing can separate us now," he replied, his fingers lightly brushing her delicate cheeks, his gaze exploring every inch of her face.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

"You're truly beautiful," he said softly. "You shine even brighter in the sunlight."

"Do you really find me beautiful?" she asked again.