"Karl… wake up," she murmured, her voice gentle as her hand reached out to pat his cheek. Her fingers were warm against his cool skin, and for a moment, he only stirred faintly, making a soft sound in his sleep. She smiled faintly, amused at how much he resembled a lazy cat refusing to move from a sunny spot.
"Karl," she said again, this time letting her palm rest against his cheek, her thumb brushing lightly along his jawline. His lashes fluttered, and he opened his eyes slowly, blinking up at her in a dazed way as if he wasn't sure where he was.
"Wife?" he mumbled, his voice low and husky from sleep.
"Yes, we're home," Ruby replied softly. "Come on, let's get you inside before you catch a cold."
