Part 97
Morning comes soft and pale through the covered window.
Aura hums in the kitchen — off-key, gentle, almost domestic.
It's the first morning he's noticed her humming. That means she feels safe.
Good. He needs her to.
When she enters with breakfast, Adrian is already sitting up, hair still messy but posture calm.
He smiles faintly. "You're early today."
Aura's eyes light up. "Couldn't sleep much. Thought I'd make your favorite."
He looks down at the tray — toast, eggs, and coffee.
He doesn't drink it. Not yet. Instead, he tilts his head.
"I was thinking… could I take a shower today? It's been a while."
The question is light, almost shy — carefully placed.
Her smile falters for half a second, then returns. "I don't know. You might try something."
He keeps his voice steady, patient. "Alex, I'm not trying to run. I told you I trust you. I just… want to feel human again."
The words feel human echo softly in the air between them.
Something flickers in her eyes — pity, maybe guilt. She hates when he sounds small, when she's reminded of the cage she's built around him.
Finally, she nods. "I'll think about it. Maybe later, when I'm sure you're calm."
He nods as if satisfied, lowering his gaze.
Inside, a quiet smile stirs. It's working.
He adds one more layer to the test.
"Could you leave the book you were reading yesterday? I'd like something to do."
That catches her off guard — no request for freedom, no anger, just simple boredom.
She studies him for a moment, searching his face for a lie.
He doesn't give her one. Just soft eyes, a faint smile.
Minutes later, she returns and places a worn paperback on the table.
She hesitates, then says, "I'll be nearby. Don't try anything stupid."
When she's gone, Adrian traces the book's spine with his thumb, whispering under his breath:
"One step at a time."
He's passed the first test — she's loosening the leash, even if she doesn't know it yet.