Though my eyes remained closed, my consciousness had surfaced.

My mind was hazy. The bed supporting my body was soft, and the blanket covering me was incredibly warm.

And my right hand felt particularly cold.

— Haaahm...

Still wrapped in the remnants of sleep, I suddenly yawned, taking care not to let any sound escape.

After successfully stifling the yawn, I shut my mouth firmly.

Perhaps because I’d just woken up, my mouth felt dry. I licked my lips, craving some moisture, and pushed myself up into a sitting position.

The blanket slid down, and immediately, I heard a familiar …