The first light of dawn began to creep into the Hermes cabin, casting a soft, golden glow over the sleeping forms of Katie Gardner and Travis Stoll. The gentle light stirred Katie from her dreams, and she blinked her eyes open, the events of the previous night flooding back to her. She was wrapped in Travis's arms, her head resting on his chest, their legs entwined beneath the blanket. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat was a comforting reminder of his presence.
Katie shifted slightly, and Travis stirred, his eyes slowly opening. He looked down at her and smiled, his expression tender and filled with love. "Good morning," he whispered, his voice husky from sleep.
"Good morning," Katie replied, her voice equally soft. She lifted her head to meet his gaze, and they shared a moment of silent connection, their hearts speaking volumes.
Travis brushed a strand of hair from her face, his touch gentle and affectionate. "Did you sleep well?" he asked.
"Better than I ever have," Katie said, her smile widening. "Being with you makes everything better."
Travis leaned down and kissed her forehead, a gesture full of warmth and care. "I feel the same way," he murmured. "Every moment with you is perfect."
They lay there for a while longer, savoring the quiet intimacy of the morning. The cabin was still and peaceful, the other campers not yet awake. It was as if the world outside didn't exist, leaving just the two of them in their private sanctuary.
Eventually, they knew they had to get up and face the new day. With a reluctant sigh, Katie sat up, stretching and feeling the muscles in her back relax. Travis watched her, his eyes filled with admiration.
"You're beautiful," he said, his voice full of sincerity.
Katie blushed, feeling a warmth spread through her. "You're just saying that because you love me," she teased.
"True," Travis admitted with a grin. "But it's also because it's the truth."
They got up and began to get ready for the day, their movements synchronized in the small space of the cabin. Travis handed Katie a fresh towel, and she smiled her thanks, their fingers brushing as she took it.
As they stepped outside, the morning air was cool and crisp, the promise of a new day lingering in the fresh scent of pine and earth. The camp was beginning to stir, the sounds of other campers waking up and starting their routines filling the air.
Katie and Travis stood there for a moment, taking it all in. The sun was rising, casting a warm glow over Camp Half-Blood, and they felt a sense of hope and determination. They knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.
Travis reached for Katie's hand, intertwining their fingers. "Ready to take on the day?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Ready," Katie replied, squeezing his hand. "As long as I have you by my side, I'm ready for anything."
As they joined their friends for breakfast, sharing smiles and laughter, Katie felt a deep contentment. She looked at Travis, and he gave her a wink, a silent promise that they would always have each other.