That morning, Karl opened his eyes slowly, feeling an unusual warmth amidst the freezing cold of the winter apocalypse. Jane and Layla were still fast asleep beside him, their faces serene as if the chaos of the outside world didn't exist. For a moment, Karl let himself lie there, savoring the tranquility that had become a rare luxury in their current lives.
Jane stirred first, stretching languidly before cracking one eye open and smirking at Karl. "Well, good morning, hero. Sleep well?"
Karl chuckled softly. "Better than most nights, I guess."
Layla stirred soon after, her soft murmurs giving way to a sleepy smile as she noticed Karl watching her. "Morning," she whispered, her voice gentle.
"Morning," Karl replied, sitting up and stretching. He looked over at the small fireplace in the corner of the room, its embers still glowing faintly. The warmth it provided was minimal, but it was enough to keep the frostbite at bay.