I was asleep, but I felt strong arms around me, their warmth and firmness enveloping me. It was an oddly comforting sensation, making me feel safe and relaxed in a way I hadn't felt in a long time.
The steady rise and fall of the chest against my back, the soft breath tickling my ear—it was all so soothing, and I found myself melting into the embrace.
As I began to wake, fragments of the previous night filtered back into my consciousness. I was in Ciara's bed, sharing it because it was our last night together. My eyes snapped open, and I found myself nestled against Ciara, her arms wrapped securely around me.
Her grip was firm, and despite my initial panic, I couldn't help but feel how strong she was. Her muscles were taut, and the rhythmic beating of her heart against my back was almost hypnotic.