**Chapter 4: Morning After**

Morning light peeked through the blinds, casting a warm glow over the room. Maya slowly opened her eyes, taking in her surroundings. She was still in Eric's bedroom, and the events of the previous night came flooding back. She turned to her side, and Eric was still fast asleep, his chest rising and falling with each gentle breath. Maya couldn't help but smile as she gazed at Eric's peaceful face. She had never felt this way about anyone before. The intimacy they shared had been overwhelming, but in a good way. She felt a deep connection to Eric, one that went beyond physical attraction. As she lay there, Maya's mind began to wander. What did this mean for their relationship? Was this just a one-time thing, or was there something more between them? She didn't have the answers, but she knew she wanted to explore this connection further. Maya gently got out of bed, careful not to disturb Eric. She grabbed her clothes from the floor and headed to the bathroom to shower and get dressed. The warm water felt amazing, and she couldn't help but think about Eric as she washed her hair. As she got dressed, Maya heard the sound of Eric moving around in the bedroom. She took a deep breath, preparing herself for whatever conversation they would have. When she walked out of the bathroom, Eric was sitting on the bed, rubbing his eyes. "Morning," he said, his voice husky from sleep. Maya smiled and walked over to him. "Morning," she replied, sitting down beside him. They sat there in comfortable silence for a moment, enjoying each other's company. Eric reached out and took Maya's hand, his fingers intertwining with hers. "We need to talk," he said, his eyes serious. Maya's heart skipped a beat. What did he want to talk about? Was he going to tell her that last night was a mistake? "About what?" she asked, trying to sound casual. Eric took a deep breath. "About us. About what happened last night." Maya's heart was racing. She had been wondering the same thing. "What do you want to talk about?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Eric looked at her, his eyes searching. "I want to know if you're okay with what happened. If you're feeling the same way I am." Maya's heart was pounding. She didn't know what to say. Part of her was scared, but another part of her was excited. "I think I am," she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper. Eric's face lit up with a smile. "I'm glad," he said, pulling her into a gentle kiss. As they kissed, Maya knew that their relationship had reached a new level. They had crossed a boundary, and there was no going back. But she was ready to see where this journey would take them.