"He could have been nicer about it," she murmured to herself, brushing a stray dark strand of hair off his forehead. "It's not like I wouldn't let him."
Her cheeks warmed because… gods, that was the truth. She'd have let him sleep beside her if he simply asked. She'd have held him even. Maybe more. Maybe a lot more.
She settled back into his hold, his arm tightening instinctively.
Sera sighed softly.
*****
Claudia was up early the next day to start preparations for the awakening ceremony.
She sat at the table, sipping her morning tea.
Sera came down the stairs quietly.
"Morning, Mrs. Blackwood," she greeted, offering a small smile.
"Morning, Sera." Claudia lowered her teacup and examined the girl closely. "Are you alright?"
"Yes," Sera replied quickly. "I'll go start with breakfast."
"Sera?" Claudia called. Sera stopped halfway toward the kitchen. "Did he… anything?"
"I don't understand," Sera said, blinking.
