054 | morning light

The soft hum of morning filtered through Gianna's room as the first rays of sunlight crept through the blinds. Her room was quiet, save for the soft, even sound of breathing beside her. She stirred slightly, the faint warmth of Hector's presence next to her grounding her like nothing else.

She blinked her eyes open, the memories of last night flooding back. Their conversation, his heartfelt confession, and the comfort of falling asleep with his arms wrapped around her. For once, everything felt simple-like the world outside could wait.

Hector was sprawled out on her bed, one arm tucked behind his head, his chest rising and falling steadily. His hair was a mess, sticking up in all directions from a night spent turning in his sleep. Gianna couldn't help but smile at the sight of him-this boy who had been her best friend for so long, now looking so utterly at peace in her bed.

He stirred slightly, his dark lashes fluttering open as he caught her staring at him. A sleepy grin spread across his face. "Good morning, hermosa," he murmured, his voice rough with sleep.

Gianna rolled her eyes, though her cheeks flushed at the nickname. "Good morning, Fort," she replied, sitting up and stretching.

He propped himself up on one elbow, watching her with an amused smirk. "You're a morning person now?"

"Hardly," she shot back, tossing a pillow at him. He caught it effortlessly, laughing.

After a few quiet moments, she turned to look at him, her expression softening. "Thanks for staying last night," she said.

"Wouldn't have been anywhere else," Hector replied, his tone sincere.

Her heart did a little flip at his words, but she quickly pushed the feeling aside. "Okay, enough sappiness. We're going to be late if we don't get moving," she said, swinging her legs over the edge of the bed.

Hector groaned dramatically, falling back onto the bed. "Do we have to? I was really enjoying this."

Gianna shook her head, biting back a smile. "Yes, we have to. I have training, and you have the academy."

"Fine," he sighed, dragging himself out of bed. He stretched, his shirt riding up slightly, and Gianna quickly averted her eyes, pretending to busy herself with finding clothes.

They got ready in a comfortable silence, Hector stealing glances at her every now and then. By the time they were both dressed and ready to go, the easy rhythm of their friendship was back in full swing.

As they stepped out of her apartment, Hector slung an arm over her shoulders. "So, how does it feel to be walking into the academy with me on your arm?" he teased.

Gianna rolled her eyes but couldn't help the grin that spread across her face. "Oh, it's a dream come true," she said dryly.

"You're lucky I like you," he replied, leaning down to press a quick kiss to her temple.

Her cheeks flushed, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she nudged him with her elbow. "Come on, Fort. Let's see if you can keep up with me today."

"Keep up with you?" he repeated with a laugh. "Please, Giu. You're the one who has to keep up with me."

They bantered the whole way to the academy, the warmth of their connection making everything feel lighter. And as they walked into the training grounds together, arm in arm, Gianna couldn't help but think that maybe, just maybe, this was exactly where she was meant to be.