Chapter 17: Morning After

Sunlight streamed through the thin curtains of Cyrus's room, casting a warm glow on the modest space. Cyrus stirred, slowly coming to consciousness. The events of the previous night played over in his mind, bringing a soft smile to his lips. He turned to see Cordelia lying beside him, her features peaceful and serene in sleep.

For a moment, Cyrus simply watched her, savoring the tranquility of the morning. He felt a deep sense of connection with her, something he hadn't anticipated. Carefully, he slipped out of bed, not wanting to wake her, and headed to the small kitchen nook to make some coffee.

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the room, and soon enough, Cordelia began to stir. She opened her eyes, stretching luxuriously before sitting up. "Good morning," she said, her voice still husky with sleep.

"Morning," Cyrus replied, handing her a cup of coffee. "Did you sleep well?"

Cordelia took the cup, smiling. "Better than I have in a long time. Your bed is surprisingly comfortable."

They sat in companionable silence for a few moments, sipping their coffee. Cyrus felt an overwhelming sense of contentment, a feeling that had been rare in his life since his parents' death. But he knew the quiet couldn't last forever. They both had lives to return to, and responsibilities to face.

"What's on your agenda for today?" Cordelia asked, breaking the silence.

Cyrus shrugged. "Just the usual. School, some training. How about you?"

Cordelia sighed. "Cheerleading practice and then I'm supposed to meet with some friends later. Nothing too exciting."

They shared a knowing look, both understanding the delicate balance they had to maintain between their normal lives and the supernatural chaos that often surrounded them. Cordelia finished her coffee and stood up, looking around for her clothes. Cyrus couldn't help but admire her confidence and grace.

As they got dressed, there was a comfortable ease between them, a stark contrast to the initial tension they had felt the night before. Cyrus was grateful for this unexpected connection. It gave him a sense of normalcy he desperately needed.

"Do you want to meet up again sometime?" Cyrus asked, trying to sound casual.

Cordelia looked at him, a playful smile on her lips. "Are you asking me out, Cyrus Knight?"

He chuckled. "Maybe. We had fun, right? No reason we can't do it again."

Cordelia pretended to consider it, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "I suppose I could fit you into my busy schedule."

They both laughed, the tension easing completely. As they headed out the door, Cordelia turned to Cyrus, her expression more serious. "Last night was nice. We should definitely do it again sometime."

Cyrus nodded, feeling a warmth spread through him. "Definitely. I'll see you around."

The school day passed quickly, the usual mix of classes, friends, and the ever-present undercurrent of supernatural threats. Buffy, Willow, and Xander noticed a change in Cyrus's demeanor, a lightness that hadn't been there before. They didn't press him for details but exchanged knowing glances.

After school, Cyrus returned to his room to practice his magic. He spent a couple of hours refining his control, focusing on precision and power. The familiar routines helped him center himself, preparing for whatever challenges lay ahead.

As the sun set, Cyrus knew it was time to patrol the cemetery. The battle against the forces of darkness never truly stopped, and he had a duty to help protect Sunnydale. He grabbed his jacket and a few necessary supplies before heading out into the night.

The cemetery was quiet, the air cool and still. Cyrus moved silently among the gravestones, his senses alert for any sign of trouble. It didn't take long for him to encounter a group of vampires, their pale faces twisted in hunger.

"Looks like I'm in for a fun night," Cyrus muttered to himself, readying his stake.

The vampires lunged at him, but Cyrus was prepared. He moved with practiced ease, his stake finding its mark with deadly accuracy. One by one, the vampires turned to dust, leaving Cyrus standing alone among the gravestones.

As he continued his patrol, Cyrus felt a renewed sense of purpose. The night with Cordelia had been a welcome distraction, but this—this was his calling. Protecting Sunnydale, helping his friends, and using his abilities for good. It was a path he had chosen, and one he was determined to follow.

The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silver glow over the cemetery. Cyrus took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his responsibilities, but also the strength of his resolve. He would face whatever came his way, with or without a night off.

And maybe, just maybe, he'd get another chance to have fun with Cordelia. But for now, there were more immediate concerns. The fight against darkness was never truly over, and Cyrus was ready to meet it head-on.