Despite the strangeness of everything that had unfolded that night, Devika slept soundly. The painted ghost was surprised by the comfort she found in another’s presence, especially one so near. It was that very comfort that had allowed her to sleep so deeply. But all good things must come to an end, and hers ended with a kick to the back.

It wasn’t hard enough to startle her fully awake, but it did earn a quiet grumble of protest. Cracking open a single blue eye, she focused it on the large oaf beside her. Judging by the shame written across his face, he must’ve felt bad for the clumsy offense.

With a huff, she let her eye fall closed again, stretching slowly in what little room she had. One last deep breath, and both eyes opened, icy gaze meeting his molten one.

Part of her was genuinely surprised to find him still there. It would’ve been easy for him to slip away while she slept. Then again, he didn’t seem the most graceful of creatures. The thought of him trying to sneak out of their makeshift den on tiptoe made her smirk. She couldn’t help but be curious now, surely he was more coordinated when given proper space? She refused to believe otherwise.

To ease any lingering tension, she leaned toward him and placed a gentle lick on his cheek. It was her own way of saying good morning, and forgiving him for so rudely disturbing her peaceful slumber.