Kate woke up past noon. Bastien's protective arms were holding her tightly against his body, as if he feared someone might take her away. She looked at him — Bastien was sleeping like an angel. She noticed his neck was covered with the marks from the kisses she had given him the night before, soft pink and some reddish. His chest bore the same traces. Kate smiled and kissed his neck and chest. Bastien stirred and pulled her closer.

— Good morning, princess — he murmured.

Kate smiled and gave him a few more kisses on the neck.

— Good morning, love. It’s already late.

— Don’t worry. I told Lucca to call your university and say you’re not going. We made love until dawn… you need to rest.

Kate snuggled against his chest, while his eyes remained closed.

— Bastien…

— Shhh, rest…

— I need to ask you something.

— Later… rest…

— I can’t.

Bastien opened his eyes and looked at her. He caressed her cheek and kissed her lips. Then, he sat up against the headboard and pulled Kate to his chest. She