Sometime during the night, Rui had shifted from her futon to Ran's, her body curled against his side, her head nestled against his shoulder.
One of his arms had wrapped around her, holding her close.
Ran woke first, his breath catching at their unexpected intimacy.
He remained perfectly still, savoring the warmth of her against him, afraid the slightest movement would shatter this stolen moment.
Rui stirred, her eyes fluttering open.
For a heartbeat, confusion clouded her features before recognition dawned. She jerked upright, cheeks flushing crimson.
"I'm sorry! I didn't mean to—"
"It's alright," Ran assured her, his voice gentle. "The nights are cold here."
They shared an awkward smile before realizing Kee Kee's absence.
Ran and Rui dressed quickly, avoiding each other's eyes.
The night's closeness had created a strange tension between them, unspoken but palpable.
