Chapter 65: Darkness and Delight pt. 2

Thomas nods slowly, then squeezes me tighter.

“You’ve been through so much. And you’ve been so brave for all of it.” His hand comes to rest on my thigh, smoothing the heat away with his cool, even touch. “Things like this are bound to leave their marks.”

“I don’t know what to do.” Much as I’d like to put on a brave face, my lip trembles and a tear slips down my cheek. Thomas brushes it away with his thumb, caressing along my jawline as he does.

“Just rest. That’s what you need now more than anything.” Easing me back, he nestles me among the pillows. “Rest.”

“I wish I could.” I grind the heels of my palms into my eyes, pushing away the mounting fatigue weighing me down. Thomas stands from the bed and looks down on me. While I can’t see him, I can feel his eyes on me. They bathe me in safety, adoration, and something more. I take my hands away from my face, and he’s silhouetted in the low light of the doorway.