AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“It’s seven.”
“Oh, wow. I slept all day.” I shake my head and then cringe. I shouldn’t make sudden movements to avoid making this never-ending headache worse.
“You’re allowed to.” Tristan’s fingers on my waist stroke against my t-shirt.
I look over at him, my heart banging aggressively. Each time he holds me like this, a piece of myself comes alive. It’s like every millimeter has a spark that only he can light.
He smiles softly, his eyes holding a combination of relief and worry. This doesn’t feel like acting. His worry is palpable. I can feel his heart pounding where my shoulder leans against his chest.
Shaking my head, I look at my mom. She gives me an approving smile that twists the guilt in my gut.
“Your dad is on his way home with some dinner. I already asked Tristan to stay, but he refuses.” My mom gives him her intimidating arched brow stare, but he laughs lightly.
“I don’t want to impose.” He smiles at her and looks down at me. His smile drops, and he brushes back my hair with his free hand.
I want to cry because of how good this feels, how right it is to have him here. I blink rapidly, breaking our eye contact, and take a deep breath. A part of me cracks as the reality settles over me.
“I’m going to rest a bit until Dad gets here, then.” I force a smile.
“Do you want to stay on the couch, so you’re closer?” My mom asks.
“My bedroom is better.”
“I’ll help you.” Tristan doesn’t release his hold on me, making this situation even harder to accept.
“I can do it.” I step away, but he tightens his hold.
“Let me,” he whispers, his breath causing goosebumps to rise along my neck.
I nod and walk to my room. My steps are sluggish, but Tristan does a good job of keeping most of my weight off my own feet. He practically carries me.
“Here you go.” He says as he helps me sit on the edge of my bed.
We stare at each other for a moment, the small lamp making it difficult to make out his expression.
“I was so scared,” he whispers as his fingers trail down my cheek.
I close my eyes, memorizing the featherlight touch.
“Lie down.” He guides my body. He’s treating me as if I’ll break at any moment. I won’t. My body hurts, but I’m not fragile.
“I’ll stay here with you.” He sits on the floor like he did earlier today. “Do you need anything?”
I shake my head.
“Good, but if you do, ask me.”
“Why are you here?” I don’t have the energy for this conversation, but I need to know.
“Because I want to be. I want to make sure you’re okay. I was so scared,” he repeats, shaking his bowed head.
I don’t push. My head still hurts, and talking makes it worse. Instead, I soak up his warmth and his company and close my eyes. Calloused fingertips skim my face, starting at my forehead and moving down my cheek and chin, then repeating the action back up to my forehead. I sigh, my body relaxing.
“I’m so glad you’re okay,” Tristan whispers.
I don’t know if he thinks I’m asleep.
“This supposedly brilliant idea backfired on me.” His fingers falter on my jaw. “I thought I was a genius when I came up with this plan. Then you entered my life.” He chuckles. “Who knew Wise Sage would turn into this in my life?” His hand cups my face, and his thumb brushes along my cheekbone. My breath falters at the intimate touch.
