49 What If I'm Not Strong Enough...

When Elara awoke, the first rays of dawn were just brushing against the edges of the horizon. The soft, lavender light filled the room, casting a quiet glow that made the world outside seem tranquil and untouched. Despite the serenity, a knot of guilt tightened in her chest. She had slept through the night, a rare luxury these days, but at a cost. She had missed her time with Aiden, the time they could have wrapped in each other's arms. 

A sigh escaped her lips.

'Funny, I have sighed more after being with Aiden than I have realized.'

Lying in her bed in the small room of her house, Elara couldn't help but notice how small her room felt. It doesn't feel the same after spending the night under the stars and the grass beneath your head as your bed. 

'He must have carried me to bed last night...' Elara thought. With a stretch, she left the comfort of her bed and washed her face for the day.