Kate slept wrapped in Bastien’s arms, their legs entwined, their naked bodies refusing to part. Bastien was the first to wake. He gently caressed her bare back, brushing a few strands of hair from her face to look at her better. A soft smile lingered on his lips.

— My sweet Kitty... finally in my arms, finally mine — he whispered, still caressing her.

Kate began to stir. A smile curled on her lips. Without opening her eyes, she murmured:

— How long have you been awake?

— An hour or two, maybe —