The next day…
Aestrea slowly opened his eyes. His body felt heavy, yet warm. On both sides of him, soft skin pressed against his arms.
He turned his head slightly.
Mia's chest rose and fell slowly, her messy hair covering her face as she snuggled closer.
On the other side, Maria rested against him, her arm draped across his chest, her breath tickling his shoulder.
Aestrea smiled faintly.
For a moment, he simply enjoyed the quiet warmth. Then, without thinking, his hand brushed lightly along the curve of a waist.
Both girls stirred at once.
"Mmnhh… good morning…" Mia's voice was soft, still husky from sleep. She blinked her big eyes open, cheeks already pink.
Maria shifted too, biting her lip shyly before whispering:
"Morning, Aestrea…" Her fingers curled against his chest.
Aestrea chuckled at their actions, having heard their unsteady breath.
"So you two were already awake, huh?"
