Stroking the soft, fair cheek, Natha couldn't help but smile at the steady movement of Valen's chest. He never forgot how hard it was for Valen to fall asleep soundly without painkillers in the past, how irregular his heartbeat was as he closed his eyes. It was hard to see it when he looked so healthy, so lovely, but Natha never forgot.
Because he swore to never let Valen experience such pain and hardship again.
Here, every night, he would stare at his beloved sleeping face, listening to the steady sound of heartbeat and soft breathing, and send his prayer and gratitude that Valen could sleep peacefully.
Only then would he fall asleep, making sure Valen was safe in his embrace.
But not tonight. Not yet.
He leaned down and kissed the ebony hair, lingering for a few seconds as he inhaled the scent of spring and summer which never failed to warm his cold body. "Sleep tight, sweetheart."
