He slept soundly with Ella curled up comfortably against him underneath his arm. The events of the day before had exhausted him, and he quickly fell asleep despite them, the alcohol aiding in that. Soon enough he awoke, for once not to the angry gaze of the governess or something similar, instead by the light streaming in through the windows.

The alcohol had worn off overnight, but left him with a staggering headache. Marken did drink a great deal, but only light wines and the like, not stronger alcohols and never more than a glass on occasion. Yawning, he moved to sit up, stretching out his arms. He was very comfortable in bed now, and laid back down to enjoy it while he could, sighing with contentment.