Page 358 of Black Reign

Xavier and Sabine.

Husband and wife beneath the same stars I watched as a child.

The world narrows until there is only warmth, breath, whispered names and the almost unbearable intimacy of finally being known without disguise.

Later, I lie curled against Xavier's bare chest beneath both blankets.

Warm.

Boneless.

Completely incapable of doing anything productive for the foreseeable future.

His fingers move through my hair.

Slowly.

The repetitive motion nearly puts me to sleep.

I listen to his heartbeat.

“Ghost?”

“Hmm?”

“That was better than NULL.”

His chest moves with laughter beneath my cheek.

“Strong endorsement.”

“I had low expectations.”

“Liar.”

I smile.

His hand slides down my back.

My wedding ring rests against his ribs.

Above us, the stars haven't moved enough to notice.

I look up.

For a long time, neither of us speaks.

Then I point.

“There.”

Xavier follows my finger.

“What?”

“Cygnus.”

“You're sure?”