Nora's POV
A coughing fit jolts me awake, my body having shifted toward the window during sleep. Dawn light filters through the glass, casting soft shadows across my bedroom. When James's warm hand settles against my back, I startle before rolling over to meet his gaze.
"You stayed."
"I couldn't bring myself to leave you alone."
"But the sun's already rising."
"I'm aware."
"The protection spell might not hold like last time." I press closer to his warmth, and he draws the blanket higher over my shoulder.
"That's a risk I'm willing to take." His fingers slip beneath the covers, trailing gentle patterns along my arm.
"You could burn."
"I'll slip downstairs before that becomes a problem. Your basement offers decent shelter. I've endured worse places waiting out daylight."
His lips brush my forehead tenderly. "Rest now. Your body needs recovery time."
"Water first." I push myself upright slowly, another cough escaping as I reach for the glass beside my bed.
