Chapter 16 - The Morning After
The morning sun broke through the clouds, casting a brilliant, blinding light over the snow-dusted coastal town. The wind had died down, leaving behind a peaceful silence.
Clara woke up on the rug. Julian's arm was wrapped securely around her waist, pulling her flush against his chest. A heavy quilt had been tossed over them during the night.
She didn't move. She just listened to the steady, rhythmic beating of his heart. For the first time in five years, she felt entirely safe.
Julian stirred, his eyes fluttering open. He looked down at her, his expression instantly softening.
"Good morning," he murmured, his voice rough with sleep.
"Good morning," she replied.
Julian slowly sat up, running a hand through his messy hair. He looked around the modest cabin, the dead fire, the frost on the windows.
"I should go clear the snow off your car," he said, shifting to stand.
Clara caught his wrist. "Julian. The divorce papers."
He froze, his shoulders tensing. "I know. I'll sign them today. I promised I wouldn't force you, and after last night, I want you to be happy. Even if it's without me."
"I burned them," Clara said.
Julian slowly turned his head to look at her, his eyes wide. "What?"
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"I used them as kindling for the fire last night while you were asleep," she smiled, a small, shy expression. "They burned very well."
Julian let out a sound that was half-laugh, half-sob. He pulled her back into his arms, kissing her fiercely, pouring every ounce of his regret and his devotion into it.
