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The first light of dawn crept through the narrow window, casting golden bands across the cabin and breaking the tenuous hold of sleep. A dull ache throbbed in my back, a reminder of the night spent curled awkwardly on the worn couch. I shifted, trying to stretch the stiffness from my muscles, when I felt a warm weight pressed against my side. My gaze drifted down, and the sight made my breath hitch. Willow lay nestled beside me, her copper curls splayed across my chest in a shimmering tangle. Her face was serene, the furrow of worry that often marked her brow now softened by sleep. She seemed smaller like this, vulnerable even, her breathing steady and rhythmic. For a moment, the room fell away, and I allowed myself the indulgence of feeling her warmth, the subtle floral scent of her hair