The sun had risen, bathing all of City A in morning light. A few rays clamored to break into the room through the window, only to be blocked by the master bedroom's thick, dark curtains.
Ning Chunchi lowered his eyes to the Omega resting on his arm.
Jiang Yumiao's eyes were closed, his long lashes motionless. His hands were curled against his chest, touching Ning Chunchi, as he slept soundly.
He looked so fragile, as though a gust of wind could carry him away, yet the Omega's words last night had been so firm, as if no difficulty ahead could frighten him off.
Little Grape was far stronger than Ning Chunchi had imagined.
Suddenly, Jiang Yumiao stirred. Ning Chunchi quickly reached over to pat his back, gently coaxing him to keep sleeping.
As though he had felt the reassurance, the Omega nuzzled deeper into Ning Chunchi's arms, found a more comfortable position, and drifted back to sleep.
Jiang Yumiao was dreaming, a dream about last night.
After he had said those words last night, Ning Chunchi hadn't answered for a long time. He had only tightened his grip abruptly, squeezing Jiang Yumiao's hand until it hurt.
Jiang Yumiao had been a little worried. He had even wondered whether his beloved had been moved to tears and was afraid to speak in case Jiang Yumiao heard it in his voice.
After a while, just as he was about to fall asleep, Ning Chunchi suddenly asked, "Can I kiss you?"
Jiang Yumiao was instantly wide awake. His cheeks flushed in the darkness as he stammered, "Ah, I, um... g-go ahead!"
He even closed his eyes and puckered his lips, ready to receive the kiss.
Ning Chunchi's eyes had adjusted to the darkness, allowing him to make out the expressions and movements of