The morning light filtered through the windows.
Gabriel woke up and sat up on the couch, wondering if it was just a dream.
He scanned the room but didn't see Ashley. "Ashley?" he called out, but there was no response.
Lying back down, the blanket slipped off onto the floor. The living room was empty, and there was no sign of Ashley.
He rubbed his temples, thinking she must have left again without waiting for him to wake up.
Gabriel decided to get up and find her to figure out what was going on.
Just then, he heard footsteps approaching.
Gabriel sat up abruptly and saw Ashley walking toward him.
"Morning."
Her long hair was tied back in a fishtail braid that emphasized her slim waist.
Gabriel couldn't help but recall the feel of her waist from the previous night.
He tossed the bl
