Gabriel scooped Ashley up and carried her to the bathroom, where he dampened a towel with warm water to soothe her eyes, then gently wiped her face, and prepared her toothpaste.
Feeling more awake after her face wash, Ashley realized she was still in Gabriel's arms and felt a blush of embarrassment. Quickly, she hopped down.
"I... I can handle this myself," she said, trying to regain some semblance of independence.
Gabriel began his own morning routine beside her. After finishing, he fetched her a thick sweater, concerned she might feel cold.
Ashley settled into a lounge chair, the horizon already brightening.
"Feeling sleepy?" Gabriel asked as he sat beside her, adjusting her sweater to protect her against the chilly sea breeze.
"Not really," she responded, her eyes fixed on the dis
