The early morning light slipped softly through the half-drawn curtains, painting the room in warm golden hues. Yahzaan groaned, squeezing his eyes shut tighter as the brightness hit his face. He flung an arm over his eyes, but the damage was done. Once he was awake, he couldn't sleep again... one of his most annoying traits.

He lay there for a moment and then out of habit, his hand reached across the mattress for his wife, seeking the familiar comfort of her body. Instead, his fingers met with empty sheets. A jolt of unease shot through him.