Days passed in a blur.
The sun hung low on the horizon now, painting the sky in shades of amber and rose.
Evening breeze drifted through the Academy gardens, carrying the scent of late-blooming flowers, jasmine and honeysuckle mixing with something sweeter.
Leaves fluttered on nearby trees, their rustling a gentle counterpoint to the distant sounds of students finishing their day.
I sat on a stone bench overlooking the eastern gardens, bandages still wrapped around my ribs and left arm, feeling the cool air against my face.
And beside me—
Snore!
A head leaned against my shoulder, brown hair tickling my neck slightly.
Emma's breathing was slow and even, her weight warm against my side.
I sighed, leaning back carefully so as not to disturb her, and watched the sun dip lower.
When did this happen?
---
Few hours ago...
I'd been lying in bed staring at the ceiling and trying not to go insane from boredom.
