**Chapter 3: In the Stillness of the Night**

The world outside receded, and all that was left was the two of us, lost in our own little bubble of love and understanding. As the night deepened, I felt my eyelids growing heavy, my body relaxing into his, and my heart filling with a sense of peace. The sound of Hange's heartbeat was a lullaby, a soothing melody that calmed my frazzled nerves. I let my gaze drift inward, and let the rhythm of his heart wash over me. In that moment, I knew that everything would be alright. As I drifted off to sleep, I felt Hange's arms tighten around me, his hold gentle but firm. He whispered a soft "I love you" in my ear, and I smiled, my lips curling up in a gentle smile. I knew that he was still awake, watching over me, making sure that I was safe. The hours ticked by, and I lost myself in the darkness, my body and mind surrendering to the exhaustion that had been building up all day. But even as I slept, I was aware of Hange's presence, his warmth, and his love. It was as if his arms were a shield, protecting me from the world, and his heart was a beacon, guiding me through the darkness. As the first light of dawn crept into the room, I stirred, my eyes fluttering open. Hange's face was inches from mine, his eyes tired but warm, his expression soft and gentle. He smiled, and I felt my heart skip a beat. "Good morning, baby," he whispered, his voice low and husky. I smiled back, my lips trembling with emotion. "Good morning," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. Hange's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled, and he leaned in, his lips brushing against mine in a gentle kiss. "How are you feeling?" he asked, his voice filled with concern. I took a deep breath, feeling a sense of calm wash over me. "Better," I replied, my voice firm. "Thank you for being here for me." Hange's expression softened, and he pulled me into a tight hug. "I'll always be here for you," he whispered, his voice filled with emotion. "You're not alone, baby. We're in this together." As we hugged, I felt a sense of gratitude wash over me. I was lucky to have Hange, to have someone who loved me, flaws and all. And as we pulled back, and looked into each other's eyes, I knew that we would face whatever came next, together. The morning light crept into the room, casting a warm glow over us. Hange's eyes sparkled with mischief, and he grinned. "You know what I think we need?" he asked, his voice filled with excitement. I raised an eyebrow, curious. "What do you think we need?" I asked, my voice playful. Hange's grin grew wider. "I think we need a break," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "A break from the world, from our problems, from everything. Just us, alone, and free." I felt a spark of excitement ignite within me. "What did you have in mind?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. Hange's eyes sparkled with mischief. "I was thinking of a surprise," he said, his voice filled with excitement. "A surprise that will take our minds off everything, and bring us closer together." I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A surprise?" I repeated, my voice filled with curiosity. Hange nodded, his grin growing wider. "Yes, a surprise," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "And I think it's just what we need." As he spoke, I felt a sense of anticipation build within me. What could Hange have planned? And how would it bring us closer together? I couldn't wait to find out.