Chapter 12: Morning Embrace

The warm sunlight streaming through the window gently coaxed Caleb and Rosie awake, casting a golden glow over the room. As they stirred, Caleb reached out and wrapped his arms around Rosie, pulling her close. "Good morning," he whispered, his voice husky from sleep. Rosie smiled, her eyes sparkling with morning brightness. "Good morning," she replied, her voice equally soft. As they lay there, Caleb leaned in and pressed his lips to Rosie's, sharing a gentle morning kiss. Rosie's lips curved into a smile as they parted, and Caleb's heart swelled with affection for her. Rosie snuggled deeper into his chest, her voice barely above a whisper. "How are you feeling today? You were really emotional last night." Caleb's arms tightened around her, holding her close. "I'm feeling better," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "Just being with you, talking to you... it really helped me process everything." Rosie's fingers stroked his chest, her touch soothing. "I'm glad I could be there for you," she said. "You know I'm always here to listen, to support you." Caleb nodded, his eyes closing as he savored the warmth of her body against his. "I know," he said. "It means a lot to me, Rosie. More than you'll ever know." As they lay there, wrapped in each other's arms, the morning sun climbed higher in the sky, casting a warm glow over the castle and its occupants. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the distant songs of birds, a gentle reminder of the beauty and peace that surrounded them. Caleb and Rosie lingered in the warmth of their bed, reluctant to break the spell of the morning. But as the silence between them grew, Rosie stirred, her voice filled with a gentle mischief. "I think we should get up and see what the others are up to," she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Maybe we can even scrounge up some breakfast." Caleb chuckled, his arms loosening as he let her slip out of bed. "Sounds like a plan," he said, his eyes following her as she padded across the room, her hair tousled from sleep. As Rosie reached for her robe, Caleb swung his legs over the side of the bed, his feet dangling in the air. He smiled, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation for the day ahead, knowing that he had Rosie by his side to face whatever it brought.