When Blue abruptly woke up, it was now full dark. The city lights gleamed a dull orange through the open window, and the stars were obscured by their half-light. She yawned in reflex, starting a little when she realized just where she was. In the middle of a hotel bed, tangled with her mate.

She moved a little to look up at Omega, still asleep and curled protectively over and around her, still fully dressed. Blue felt a pang of heartache; he had to be exhausted, and miserable, suffering over her all hours of the day. She gently stroked his face, wishing she could reward such unswerving devotion.

And although she knew it was foolhardy, and so unfair, she eased up to press a soft kiss to his lips, mouthing I love you silently, and resting her cheek against his.