Amelie returned to the room, feeling strangely lighter after her heartfelt conversation with Queen Mabel.
She sat beside Gabriel, who was still fast asleep. A soft smile touched her lips as she gently ran her fingers through his tousled hair.
"I didn't see any mark on you," she whispered to herself. "And I have no idea if I have one either…"
Her thoughts lingered for a moment longer before she rose and headed to the bathroom for a bath.
When she stepped out later, wrapped in a bathrobe, her damp hair clung to her shoulders. She began drying it with a towel, only to pause when she noticed the bed empty.
Her gaze shifted toward the open balcony door, curtains swaying lightly in the breeze.
Before she could call out, strong arms circled her waist from behind, pulling her back into a warm, familiar embrace.
Gabriel's breath tickled her ear as he pressed his face into her neck, inhaling deeply.
