The cool night air sent shivers down Lilith's spine as she waded out of the lake, wringing out the excess water from her long, damp hair. She had scrubbed herself as best as she could, ridding her skin of the dirt and grime that had clung to her for days. It wasn't the same as bathing in Eden's pristine rivers, but it was refreshing nonetheless.

She held up her dress, now rinsed clean but still tattered from the past days of survival. The fabric was still damp, and the torn edges only served as a reminder of everything she had been through.

With a resigned sigh, she slipped it back on.

It clung to her uncomfortably, the cool wetness sending another round of chills through her body, but it was all she had. She wasn't about to walk around naked.

As she stepped out of the clearing and made her way back toward Samael, she spotted him hovering nearby, his blue eyes lighting up the moment he saw her.

"You're back!" he said eagerly, floating over to meet her. "How was your bath?"

Lilith rolled her shoulders. "It was fine. Could've been warmer, but I can't exactly be picky out here."

Samael nodded, then his gaze drifted downward, noticing the way her dress clung to her. "Uh... you're still soaked."

Lilith let out an exasperated sigh. "Yeah, I know. It's my only dress, and I don't really have another option." She crossed her arms. "Unless you'd prefer me to just walk around naked."

Samael immediately turned a shade pink, waving his hands frantically. "Nope! Nope! That won't be necessary! I can help with that!"

Lilith raised a brow. "Help?"

Samael grinned and snapped his fingers. A soft, golden light surrounded her, warm and soothing like the sun on a spring morning. In an instant, the wet fabric dried completely, the lingering chill leaving her body. She glanced down in surprise—not only was the dress dry, but the rips and tears had been seamlessly mended.

It looked brand new.

Lilith blinked, then looked at Samael. "How did you—"

"Magic," he said proudly, crossing his arms. "A simple trick, really."

Lilith ran her fingers over the smooth, now-intact fabric, unable to deny the relief that flooded through her. She hadn't felt this clean or comfortable since she left Eden. "Huh," she muttered. "I was expecting something more flashy."

Samael smirked. "I can make it flashy if you want."

Lilith rolled her eyes but smiled slightly. "No thanks." She exhaled. "Still, I appreciate it. This feels... nice."

"Don't thank me yet." Samael's grin widened mischievously. "I have a surprise for you."

Lilith narrowed her eyes. "A surprise?"

"You'll see!" Samael hovered a little ahead, motioning for her to follow. "Come on, I promise it's worth it."

Lilith hesitated for a moment before sighing and walking after him. She had no idea what Samael was up to, but she had to admit—his enthusiasm was at least slightly contagious.

Whatever it was, he looked very excited to show her.

And for the first time in a while, she found herself curious.

Lilith followed closely behind Samael as they entered the cave, her footsteps light on the cool stone floor. She hadn't expected much—perhaps a simple shelter, something to keep the wind and cold at bay. But as she stepped inside, her breath hitched.

The cave had been transformed into a home.

Soft golden light from floating orbs illuminated the space, casting a warm glow on the carefully arranged furnishings. A fireplace sat in the center of the main chamber, crackling with a steady, comforting flame. A plush, comfortable-looking bed rested against the far wall, layered with thick, warm blankets and soft pillows. A pool of fresh, crystal-clear water shimmered in a side alcove, perfect for bathing.

As she moved deeper inside, she took in the intricate details of her new home—things that she had never even considered but now couldn't imagine living without. There were wooden cabinets and a pantry, fully stocked with food that wouldn't run out. A fridge, cold to the touch, with fresh fruit, vegetables, and other ingredients neatly stored inside. Shelves lined with books, some old and worn, others pristine and new, waiting to be read. A corner of the room was filled with painting supplies—blank canvases, jars of vibrant paints, brushes of all sizes, and even a small wooden easel.

Lilith reached out, touching the wooden furniture, running her fingers over the smooth surface. She turned to the closet, pulling open its doors to reveal dresses of all colors and fabrics, each one tailored perfectly to her size. She traced her fingers along the intricate embroidery on one of the garments, stunned into silence.

She spun back around, eyes wide as she stared at Samael, who was fidgeting with his gloves, waiting for her reaction.

"This... this is all mine?" she finally asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Samael nodded eagerly. "Of course! It's all for you. Your space, your things. Everything you could ever need." He grinned. "I, uh... wasn't really sure what you liked, so I kinda just went overboard with everything."

Lilith turned in slow circles, taking it all in again. "You did all of this... for me?"

Samael shrugged. "Well, yeah. You deserve a home, Lilith. A real home. Not just a garden to sleep in."

Lilith's hands trembled slightly as she looked around once more. No one had ever done anything like this for her before. No one had ever cared this much. She had been created to serve a purpose, to fulfill a duty, to be someone else's. But here... this was hers. Truly hers.

Without thinking, she turned and threw her arms around Samael, burying her face into his shoulder.

"Thank you," she whispered. "Thank you, thank you, thank you."

Samael stiffened at first, surprised by the sudden hug, but quickly melted into it, wrapping his arms around her as well. He smiled against her hair, relief washing over him. "You don't have to thank me so much. I just wanted you to be comfortable."

Lilith pulled back slightly, looking up at him. "No, you don't understand. No one has ever done something like this for me. No one has ever cared this much."

Samael's smile softened. "Well... I do."

Lilith inhaled deeply, steadying herself. She had to blink rapidly to keep herself from tearing up, overwhelmed by everything.

Samael cleared his throat awkwardly and took a step back, rubbing the back of his head. "Well, now that you're all set up, I should probably get going and let you settle in—"

Lilith suddenly reached out, grabbing his sleeve before he could take another step. Samael blinked at her in surprise.

"Wait." She hesitated for a moment before continuing. "Stay. Just for a little while. I can... I can make something for you."

Samael tilted his head. "Make something?"

Lilith nodded. "Bread. I learned how to make it back in Eden with grains from the garden. It's... the one thing I know how to cook properly."

Samael's smile returned. "You want to make me bread?"

Lilith looked away, slightly embarrassed. "I just... I just don't want to be alone right now."

Samael's heart squeezed at her words.

"Then I'll stay," he said without hesitation. "I'd love to try your bread."

Lilith gave him a small, grateful smile before moving toward the pantry to gather ingredients. Samael watched her for a moment, then sat himself down across from

her on a stool at the countertop, settling in as warmth filled both the room and his chest.

Neither of them voiced it, but they both knew.

Neither of them really wanted to be alone tonight.

Lilith's hands worked skillfully, kneading the dough on the smooth stone countertop. Her movements were practiced, but there was an ease to them now—something almost enjoyable about the simple act of baking. Samael watched her with a curious glint in his eyes.

"So," he said suddenly, resting his chin in his hands, "what's your favorite color?"

Lilith paused mid-knead, blinking at him. "What?"

Samael grinned. "Your favorite color. What is it?"

Lilith frowned slightly. "I... I don't know."

Samael sat up straighter. "Really?"

Lilith gave a small shrug. "I've never really thought about it before. No one's ever asked me."

Samael tapped his chin, thinking. "Well, if you had to pick one, right now, what would it be?"

Lilith looked around her home, her eyes scanning over the fabrics of the dresses in her wardrobe, the glow of the fireplace, the soft flickering of candlelight against the stone walls. She finally looked down at the flour-dusted countertop and exhaled thoughtfully.

"...Maybe a warm color. Like a deep red, or gold."

Samael beamed. "Good choice. I think they'd suit you."

Lilith gave him a side glance, slightly amused. "What about you?"

"Blue," Samael said without hesitation. "It reminds me of the sky when it's clear, endless, and free."

Lilith smiled softly at that but said nothing. She turned back to the dough, folding it over itself again.

Samael rested his elbows on the counter, watching her curiously. "What else do you like?"

Lilith raised a brow. "You're asking a lot of questions."

Samael chuckled. "I want to know more about you."

Lilith paused, pressing her hands into the dough. "...I don't really know."

"What do you mean?"

Lilith exhaled slowly. "I was created with a purpose. Everything I've ever done was because I had to. Baking, gardening, all of it... Those were just skills I was taught or pushed to learn by the seraphim. But what do I like?" She frowned, staring at the dough. "I have no idea."

Samael tilted his head, considering her words. Then, he smiled brightly. "Then we'll figure it out together."

Lilith looked up at him, her lips parting slightly in surprise.

"We can find out what you like," Samael continued. "There's no rush. We'll try new things, explore, and you can decide for yourself what brings you joy."

Lilith stared at him, something warm blooming in her chest. "...I'd like that."

Samael leaned forward, resting his cheek against his palm. "And do you have any questions about me?"

Lilith tapped the dough thoughtfully. "I do have some things I've been wondering about you."

Samael grinned. "Oh? Do tell."

Lilith turned to him with a curious expression. "What exactly do you do in Heaven?"

Samael straightened a little, tapping his fingers on the countertop. "I teach young angels and cherubs. Mostly about humility, kindness, and how to care for one another."

Lilith's brows raised slightly. "That suits you."

Samael chuckled. "You think so?"

Lilith nodded. "You're a good teacher. I mean, you're teaching me all sorts of things right now."

Samael beamed at the compliment. "I also play music," he added. "I love playing my violin."

Lilith perked up at that. "A violin?"

Samael nodded, his excitement growing. "Yeah. It's my favorite instrument. I've been playing for as long as I can remember."

Lilith was intrigued. "What does it sound like?"

Samael's eyes twinkled. "I'll show you one day. I promise."

Lilith found herself smiling. "I'd like that."

As their conversation carried on, Lilith finished shaping the dough and placed it into the brick oven. The warmth of the fire flickered across her face, and she let out a soft sigh, relieved that it was finally baking.

Samael clapped his hands together. "Alright, now for the least fun part—cleaning up."

Lilith smirked. "You don't have to help."

Samael placed a hand over his chest dramatically. "What kind of guest would I be if I just sat around while you did all the work?"

Lilith rolled her eyes but smiled as they began tidying up. Side by side, they worked together, dusting off flour, washing the bowls, wiping down the counter. The rhythmic motion of it was almost soothing, and Lilith found herself at ease for the first time in a long while.

As she worked, her mind drifted. She thought about Samael's kindness, his warmth, how effortlessly he treated her as an equal. How he asked what she wanted, how he wanted to help her figure out who she was, what she loved. It was something she had never experienced before—not with the seraphim, not even with Adam.

And as she stood next to him, cleaning up their mess, she realized something else.

Samael was nothing like Adam.

Adam had always been compliant, willing to accept whatever was given to him. But Samael? He fought for what was right, even if it made things harder.

Adam had never tried to understand her. He had simply followed the seraphim's guidance, believing she should fall in line with their wishes. But Samael? He listened to her. He valued her voice.

Adam had never made her feel truly safe.

Samael had.

She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, watching as he hummed softly to himself, drying off a bowl with a cloth.

This man—this angel—who had been nothing but kind to her, who had helped her in every way imaginable without expecting anything in return.

She didn't know what it was, this warmth spreading in her chest. But it was real.

And it was much, much stronger than anything she had ever felt for the man she was supposedly meant to spend eternity with.

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the cozy cave, wrapping the space in warmth and comfort. Lilith carefully pulled the loaf from the brick oven, its golden crust crisp beneath her fingertips. She placed it on the wooden table, tearing it in half with her hands, steam rising between them.

"Here," she said, handing one piece to Samael.

Samael accepted the bread with a beaming smile. "You didn't have to share. But I am glad you did."

Lilith chuckled softly. "I did make this for you, after all."

They each took a bite. The texture was perfect—soft inside, with a slight crunch on the crust. A subtle sweetness lingered, reminding Samael of something familiar.

"This tastes amazing," he said between bites, his voice full of delight. "It reminds me of Triel's cooking."

Lilith raised a brow. "Triel?"

Samael nodded, swallowing another bite before he continued. "One of the virtues. She's the Virtue of Temperance, and she makes sure we all take care of ourselves properly. She's like a big sister to everyone, always making sure we don't overwork or neglect ourselves."

Lilith smirked slightly. "Sounds like you really care about her."

"I do," Samael said fondly. "I care about all the virtues. They're my family." His expression softened as he continued, "They were always there for me, even when the seraphim weren't. They listen, they support me, and they actually respect me. I'd do anything for them."

Lilith stared at him, a mixture of admiration and something deeper swirling in her chest. Samael was nothing if not selfless. Despite how he had been treated, despite being cast aside by those who should have supported him, he still remained so kind, so giving. It was a stark contrast to what she had been used to.

"You're really something else, Samael," Lilith murmured.

Samael tilted his head, surprised by the comment. "Huh? What do you mean?"

Lilith simply shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "Never mind."

They sat together in comfortable silence for a moment, finishing their meal. Lilith felt an unfamiliar warmth inside her—not just from the food but from the company. She had never expected to feel this comfortable, this safe with someone.

But as the night wore on, Samael eventually stretched and sighed.

"I should probably go," he said reluctantly. "I don't want the virtues worrying about me... or worse, anyone else getting suspicious."

Lilith's smile faded. She didn't want him to leave. Not yet.

She hesitated before speaking. "...Do you really have to?"

Samael's expression softened. "I don't want to, but I have to be careful. If they suspect anything, they might start looking for you again."

Lilith lowered her gaze, gripping the edge of the table. "Right."

Samael stepped closer, tilting his head slightly. "But listen—if you ever need me, just call for me. I promise I'll always be there."

Lilith looked up at him, searching his face for any hint of dishonesty. But, as always, his words were sincere.

She exhaled softly. "Okay. I'll hold you to that promise."

Samael grinned. "I wouldn't expect anything less."

With one final glance around, making sure everything was in place, he turned toward the cave's entrance.

"Goodnight, Lilith," he said, giving her a small wave before stepping into the darkness.

Lilith watched as his figure disappeared into the night, her heart feeling unexpectedly... heavy.

Once he was gone, she sighed, making her way to the bed Samael had provided. She laid down, sinking into the soft blankets, feeling warmth wrap around her for the first time in what felt like forever.

It was comfortable. Far more comfortable than sleeping on the cold, unforgiving ground.

And yet, even with the comfort, even with the warmth, she still felt restless. She turned onto her side, staring at the flickering firelight against the stone walls.

She wasn't cold anymore.

But she was still alone.

Meanwhile, Samael carefully made his way back toward the Celestial Hall, ensuring he avoided any detection. His heart was still racing—not from fear, but from the excitement of what he had accomplished. Lilith was safe. She was free.

But as he approached the hall, he remembered that he needed to keep up appearances.

With a snap of his fingers, he conjured a few carefully chosen items—gifts for Triel. Some fresh fruits, a book he knew she had been wanting, and a few other small things.

He sighed, knowing that he'd need to make his return seem as mundane as possible. If anyone asked, he had simply been running errands for Triel.

As long as he played it right, no one would ever suspect a thing.