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She nodded, her thumb gently caressing the back of his hand.“I can’t pretend to fully understand what you went through, but I’m here for you anytime you want to talk.Or we can always sit in silence.I’m good at silence.”
He smiled.The weight of his past lifted slightly as he took in her words.“Thank you, baby doll.It means a lot to me.You should go back to sleep, though.You need rest.”
A few moments passed before she finally spoke.“Would you...Do you think I could lie out here with you?I don’t want to be alone.”
He looked at her, his heart swelling with affection for this Little girl who was quickly turning his world upside down.He couldn’t deny her request, not when he knew firsthand the comfort that came from simply being near someone.And after what she’d gone through, he would be with her as much as she needed.
“Of course,” he replied softly, scooting over to make more room for her to lie on the couch.She settled in beside him, her head finding its place on his chest, and he wrapped his arm around her protectively.The warmth of her body against his was soothing in a way he’d never felt before after having a nightmare.
As they lay there together, her breathing gradually slowed and deepened, signaling she had drifted off into a peaceful sleep.He watched over her, his eyes tracing every curve of her delicate features.In that moment, he had an overwhelming surge of hope she would give him a chance.
He watched her for hours, memorizing every freckle, curve, and dimple on her sweet face.When he couldn’t keep his eyes open any longer, he closed them and let himself drift off.
When he woke up, the room was filled with soft morning light, casting a warm glow over their entangled bodies.His girl stirred beside him, her eyes fluttering open to meet his gaze.A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips, and he couldn’t help but be mesmerized by her.She was so damn perfect.
“Good morning,” she whispered, her voice filled with a mixture of contentment and vulnerability.
“Morning, kitten,” he replied, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
“Did I hog the whole couch?”
He chuckled.“You did, but I didn’t mind.For such a little thing, you sure do stretch out.But having you next to me was the best night’s sleep I’ve had in a long time.”
She blushed, her cheeks turning a delicate shade of pink.“I’m glad I could help.”
They stared at each other for several seconds, their faces only inches apart.Slowly, he lowered his mouth to hers and brushed a kiss to her lips.It was quick and gentle, but he couldn’t resist.When he pulled back, she smiled softly as she ran her index finger over where he’d just kissed her.He wanted to do it again, but he needed to take things slow.She needed time to adjust to his affection.
“Are you hungry?I smell pancakes.Bear usually makes them for the Little girls every morning.”
Her eyes widened.“Bear?That’s an ominous name.”
He grinned, amused at her reaction.“Well, Bear may have a gruff exterior, but he’s actually a giant teddy bear.You’ll see.Remi, Carlee, and Ivy have him wrapped around their fingers.”
She nodded, seeming intrigued but nervous.He couldn’t help the sense of protectiveness that washed over him.He wanted to shield her from any discomfort or harm, to make sure she felt safe and secure by his side.
After she pulled on a pair of leggings, they made their way into the kitchen.The delicious scent of maple and butter grew stronger.Bear stood at the stove, flipping pancakes with practiced ease.He had tattoos that covered both arms and a full beard that gave him a rugged appearance.Harper grabbed Doc’s hand as they approached.He gave her a gentle, reassuring squeeze.
“Hey there, buddy,” Bear greeted him.“And who’s this sweet Little girl you’ve brought home?”
“This is Harper.She’s mine.”
Harper’s head snapped back in surprise, and Doc realized he’d claimed her in front of at least a dozen people.Shit.
Nine
Harper
It felt as though all eyes were on her, and she had no idea what she was supposed to do.Levi looked down at her, a silent apology on his face.
Bear cleared his throat.“It’s nice to meet you, Harper.Do you like animal-shaped pancakes?How about a bear?”
Ivy snorted from the table.“When I asked for a bear, you said no.”
“That’s because you put salt in my coffee yesterday, brat,” Bear retorted.“Harper looks much too sweet to do such a thing.Right, Harper?”
She giggled and shrugged.“Maybe.Maybe not.May the odds be in your favor.”
As soon as she said the words, her eyes nearly popped out of her head.She wasn’t normally so outgoing or smart-mouthed.Fear swirled in her tummy.Was Bear going to yell at her?Would Levi be mad that she’d embarrassed him?
