"I'm sorry," she whispered instead, her eyelids growing unexpectedly heavy.
The exhaustion of their journey, the warmth of his proximity, and the gentle rhythm of his breathing combined to create an irresistible pull toward
sleep.
She fought against it, determined to stay awake, to be present for him in this rare moment of vulnerability. But her body betrayed her, her consciousness slipping away like water through cupped hands...
…
…
…
Valencia blinked and realized she was no longer on the rooftop but lying on the worn couch in the safe house.
Around her, the others were still sleeping, their bodies were barely visible in the dim pre-dawn light filtering through the boarded windows.
"Did I fall asleep? Ah... I messed it up again..." she murmured to herself, heat rising to her cheeks.
She sat up slowly, feeling embarrassed from last nights talk.
She'd meant to keep Rel company during his watch, to show support, and instead she'd fallen asleep on his shoulder like a child.
