71. Love, Loss, and Reconciliation

In the early morning, sunlight seeped into the cottage, waking Efrain. He glanced at Marissa, still asleep beside him, wrapped in blankets. The fireplace crackled, casting a warm light on them both.

As Efrain tried to get up, Marissa gripped his hand tighter, silently asking him to stay. "Just a little longer," she whispered, her eyes shut in the peaceful haze of half-awake bliss.

"But we have to head back to town today," Efrain reminded her.

"Just five more minutes," Marissa pleaded, pulling him closer with a playful tug, her heart longing for a bit more time in their secluded haven.

Efrain's laughter echoed in the air, blending with Marissa's playful insistence. With a soft sigh, he gave in to her charm, settling back beside her as she snuggled his hand against her waist.

They slipped back into sleep, lost in dreams and the comfort of each other's company. It wasn't until two peaceful hours later that they reluctantly woke, pulling away from their cozy nest to prepare for the day.

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