I washed off the remaining dirt, making sure I didn’t take it and sweat into the tub. I had still not been able to calm the fire that she’d started in me.
I walked over and settled into the warm water, pulling her into my arms, leaning her back against my chest. “I wanted you to relax,” I murmured.
“I relax better when I'm in your arms.” She leaned her head back onto my shoulder, and I kissed her jaw.
My arms were wrapped around her, and I gave her a gentle squeeze. Just as she said, she immediately relaxed.
“I love you, Rae,” I whispered to her as her breathing changed.
She didn’t say the words back, but the way she melted into my arms, feeling safe enough to fall asleep against my chest, said everything for her.
Chapter 43
Rae
Iturned over and reachedout for Caleb, but he wasn't lying next to me. I abruptly sat up and let my eyes adjust to the dim lighting in the room. Caleb wasn't in the room with me, but Duke was at the door of the room, lying in the door frame.
Checking my phone, I saw a text message notification and opened it. When I saw it was from Caleb, I breathed a sigh of relief. The message had only been sent five minutes ago.
Caleb: Hey baby. I'm so sorry, I couldn't sleep and was getting restless. I didn't want to be selfish and wake you, so I went to the living room, until I felt tired enough. I love you.
The bedroom door was open slightly and the light of the TV flickered on the hallway walls. I walked out of the room and to the end of the hallway. The volume of the TV was on but low, sounding like whispers.
“Caleb?” My voice was no higher than a whisper in case he had fallen asleep on the couch.
“Oh gosh Rae, I'm so sorry I woke you up.”
There were worry lines on his face and dark circles under his eyes. Something was really bothering him.
“You didn't. I did get nervous when you weren't in bed, though. Couldn't sleep?”
He ran a hand over his face. “Pretty much.”
I sat on the couch next to Caleb and placed my hand on his arm. “What's on your mind?”
“Ah, it's nothing. I'm sorry if I worried you.”
