The next morning, Kyle stirs, eyes fluttering open only to squint against the soft light filtering through the curtains.
The room is already bright, too bright. Morning sun spills across the bed, warm and uncomfortably telling.
His heart skips.
He turns his head sharply, glancing around in surprise. Ashen is still sleeping, sprawled across his chest, one arm draped around him, breathing deep and slow.
"Ashen," Kyle calls, voice rough with sleep, but Ashen doesn't so much as flinch.
Kyle shifts beneath him, clearing his throat. "Ashen, it's Monday. You have school, and you're late. Come on."
Still nothing. He shakes him lightly.
"Ashen," he tries again, firmer now. "You're late. I have work today too. Wake up."
Ashen groans sleepily in response and buries his face even closer into Kyle's neck, curling in like he wants to disappear under the covers instead of facing the day.
Kyle sighs, glancing at the clock. He tries again, but the result is the same. No reaction.
