The darkness of the night slowly drifted away, giving way to morning light. Sunlight filtered in through the window beside the bed, falling in a parallel line across Liend's face. His eyelids fluttered.
"Ugh..."
Liend groaned. Something was pressing heavily against his chest—making it ache, making it hard to breathe or move.
"Mom..." he murmured instinctively, voice hoarse.
His mother's body was sprawled over him, her breast pressing firmly against his bare chest. Wincing, he shifted his arm and gently nudged her aside.
"Haa..."
He finally exhaled deeply, turning his head.
Kiana yawned beside him, arms stretching wide above her head.
"Liend..." she murmured mid-yawn, blinking awake.
"You up, baby?" she asked, voice still thick with sleep.
She stretched once more, then settled, eyes meeting his.
"Here," Kiana whispered softly, leaning in.
"Give Momma a kiss."
