Annabelle was currently doing one of her most favorite things in the world.
Looking at her Darling.
He was asleep beside her, his breathing slow and even, his eyes relaxed beneath their lids. The tension he often carried in his brow had disappeared. In sleep, Adrian looked calmer, younger almost, as if the weight he bore every waking moment had finally loosened its grip.
His arm was loosely draped over her waist. Their bodies were so close that she could feel the warmth of his breath brushing against her face with every quiet exhale. The faint rhythm of it tickled her skin, making her relaxed and excited at the same time.
Last night... something unexpected happened.
Unexpected, but welcomed.
For a long time Annabelle simply watched him, her gaze soft as it traced the familiar lines of his face. The bridge of his nose, the faint shadow of his lashes, the quiet strength resting beneath that peaceful expression.
How many years had she waited for this?
