The cold, familiar fragrance of wild roses jolted me awake from deep slumber. My nose twitched at the sudden scent, the floral notes mingling with something darker—the metallic tang of blood and the crispness of night air. My eyes fluttered open, still heavy with sleep, finding the chamber pitch black as I was gently pulled into an embrace. The silk sheets rustled softly as I shifted, my body instinctively recognizing his touch even in the darkness. The once lonely, silent hall suddenly felt warm and intimate.
I stretched lazily, catlike, curling into a comfortable spot in his arms to continue my sweet dreams. My bare feet brushed against his cool skin, sending a shiver up my spine despite the warmth of the blankets.
He softly kissed my cheeks, inhaling my scent as if to confirm my existence, murmuring, "Margie? So fragrant, so sweet! Like roses dipped in honey."
