I snuggled closer, savoring the warmth of Aldrich's embrace. His arm lay across my waist, heavy yet comforting, his slow breathing brushing against the back of my neck. I could feel his heartbeat. It was very steady, strong, and grounding. His skin was still warm from everything that had happened earlier. His scent, oh, that faint trace of soap, musk, and something purely him, clung to my body and the sheets.

His eyes were closed, but even in sleep, his hold around me tightened. He was completely lost to the world. He seemed so peaceful. For a second, I envied that peace. He had earned it, though, after what we...