Golden sunlight filtered gently through the curtains, pulling me from the depths of sleep. As my eyes adjusted, the faint warmth on my face gave way to an undeniable realization.
I was surrounded—by four high-born ladies, sound asleep around me.
'Heaven or hell?' I wondered, glancing at their peaceful faces. They looked so serene, the usual spark of competition softened into pure calm. For once, they weren't teasing, prodding, or plotting—just sleeping, and it was impossible not to feel a flutter in my chest at the sight.
Rachel's golden head rested against my right shoulder, her hand curled delicately over my chest. Cecilia had claimed my left side, her crimson nightgown a stark contrast against the white sheets. Seraphina had somehow ended up using my legs as her pillow, her silver hair cascading across the duvet like moonlight. Rose had taken the more modest position of curling up near my feet, though her auburn hair splayed across my ankle in a gentle touch.
